Jon's solo works

I'm only now catching up with Jon's solo works. There are still a few that I have not heard yet but will soon. I would be interested in your thoughts on Jon's albums. Here are the ones I have listened to:
Olias--Like it (Used to love it, think I need to listen again with more one pointedness of mind);
Song of Seven--Hate it (except for the last 2 songs), It appears to be shockingly bad;
3 Ships--Love it through and through--a classic must have; Animation--SoSo--but does require more listening;
In The City of Angels--spotty but some good songs on it and finally;
The Deseo Remixes--Great--except for the 2nd cut which sounds like something that belongs in a gay men's club (not that there is anything wrong with that, it just doesn't interest me).

The biggest disappointment for me was Song of Seven. I could hardly believe that this recording was created by the same fellow who created Tales and Close to the Edge. I would not have believed it if I had not seen it with my own eyes. The second to last song is VERY short--if it's a minute, I'd be surprised. But it's nice. Song of Seven--the title and final cut is interesting. I was wondering why Jon did not do more of that kind of thing on this recording.

I still have more listening to do and will provide more details as they come to me--but in the meantime, I would love to hear your experiences with Jon's solo albums.

[Yes Oz]

The last couple of nights I have taken my half a dozen solo albums of Jons to work and only last night I thought this would make a good topic for this site and when I get home and logon you've started it.

Here is my assesment of Jons solo work.
it struck me how diverse his music can be. I started by listening to Song of Seven. The title track is excellent of course the whole album is very 70's but I believe a few of the tracks stand up well today.

The More you Know. Has 5 or 6 great tracks. Youth being the best of the lot even my kids like it (not sure if that is good when you consider what they normally listen too). This album reminds me of "cabaret' type music. Then I moved on to Deseo. Obviously very Latin American, but he does an excellent job, IMO, to stay true to this style of music. of course the right musicians to pull it off surrounds him on this album, but its got some great tracks, including the title track and This Child.

In the city of Angels was a surprise to me. Hadn't played it for years and I virtually dismised this album a decade ago, but the two tracks that close the album are amongst the best of Jons solo efforts, namely, Top of the World and Hurry Home (especially). its got plenty of other good material on it.

The Promise Ring has always been a favourite. Similar to Deseo that he puts across the ethic music, in this case Irish, very well. Once again though he is surrounded by the right musicians to do this. But the lyrics and melodies are so Irish (IMO). then finally I listen to Toltec. i love the flow of this album. Must admit that Longwalker goes on a bit but musically and the way it is arranged makes it a great finished product. And the last track Ave Verum is brilliant.

So the music ranged from Latin American, Irish, cabaret, Concept (Toltec) not to mention a few Yes type tracks scattered amongst them all (as you would expect).

All in all Mr Anderson is a very rare talent. Then we all know that don't we. I think Yesiree I see alot of the stuff the way you did particularly the "best" tracks opinions. But I found it a very interesting exercise to play these albums one after each other in quick succession. Reccommend this to all Yes fans and get their opinions.

[WhiteKnight]

I too am only now catching up with Jon's works. Here's my comment on those (4) I already got.

1. Olias of Sunhillow
I used to like it, although I think I never understood it completely. I found many instrumental parts (those that sound "japanese" to me) boring. Now I've come to love it - the mysthical, 70s taste of it. I think it makes for a superlative background music (as opposed to music on which you have to focus your mind, which is usually the case with Yes) - relaxing, comforting, full of quiet positive energy.

2. In the City of Angels
This is obviously more pop. I like it so and so. Strangely enough, I also find it spotty but the two songs that YesOz mentions are those that I like the less (Top of the World/Hurry Home). The love songs on it are pretty good - much in the venue of the best Jon & Vangelis, except "Hold On to Love" which is more on the commercial side although very enjoyable. Perhaps those that intrigue the most after several listens are "Sundancing" and "New Civilization". As a side note, I find the direct reference to mainstream NewAge ideas and beliefs a bit discomforting. I prefer the more vague, but universally touching lyrics Jon writes for Yes, over the NA stereotypes (Pleiades, "colorful children" which must be "indigo children", etc.). But speaking of lyrics, "All our countries, all our people, beyond war" sends shivers down my spine.

3. Deseo
I love it, although I'm usually not much into latin music. Again, the highlights for me aren't the same as YesOz's: the titletrack is a bit too long and repetitive for me, and the short ones "this child", "bless this" I find a bit tasteless. "Floresta" is amusing, and I would include it in any collection of Jon's best. All those little instruments from the left, right, centre of the stereo range always make me think of small creatures in a southamerican virgin forest.

4. The More You Know
I didn't like it at first. This is probably the one that most departs from Yes style. After a few listen, it hooked me and I played it over and over. In this case I agree with YesOz on "Youth" being one of the highlights (incredibly crystal-clear vocals on this one), TV being another great one. One strong point of the album is that all tracks are rather good (none is excellent maybe).

WK









Here is my assesment of Jons solo work.
it struck me how diverse his music can be. I started by listening to Song of Seven. The title track is excellent of course the whole album is very 70's but I believe a few of the tracks stand up well today.

The More you Know. Has 5 or 6 great tracks. Youth being the best of the lot even my kids like it (not sure if that is good when you consider what they normally listen too). This album reminds me of "cabaret' type music. Then I moved on to Deseo. Obviously very Latin American, but he does an excellent job, IMO, to stay true to this style of music. of course the right musicians to pull it off surrounds him on this album, but its got some great tracks, including the title track and This Child.

In the city of Angels was a surprise to me. Hadn't played it for years and I virtually dismised this album a decade ago, but the two tracks that close the album are amongst the best of Jons solo efforts, namely, Top of the World and Hurry Home (especially). its got plenty of other good material on it.

The Promise Ring has always been a favourite. Similar to Deseo that he puts across the ethic music, in this case Irish, very well. Once again though he is surrounded by the right musicians to do this. But the lyrics and melodies are so Irish (IMO). then finally I listen to Toltec. i love the flow of this album. Must admit that Longwalker goes on a bit but musically and the way it is arranged makes it a great finished product. And the last track Ave Verum is brilliant.

So the music ranged from Latin American, Irish, cabaret, Concept (Toltec) not to mention a few Yes type tracks scattered amongst them all (as you would expect).

All in all Mr Anderson is a very rare talent. Then we all know that don't we. I think Yesiree I see alot of the stuff the way you did particularly the "best" tracks opinions. But I found it a very interesting exercise to play these albums one after each other in quick succession. Reccommend this to all Yes fans and get their opinions. [/B][/QUOTE]

[Flo]

Since I have been a member of Yes fan (dec 01), I listen to Yes albums and Jon Anderson solos more often and with a new ear and I am re-discovering albums I had almost dismissed when they were first released.
For example Change We must ; when I bought it I only listened to it maybe twice and thought it was so so. Now I get more involved and some songs get me charmed such as Chagall Duet where Jon share vocals with a French soprano. Interesting...
Even Deseo : at first I found it messy and now I seem to like it.
Am I brain-stormed by the company of Yes fans all over the world.

[Yes Oz]

Flo..No your not brain stormed. Eventually the cream rises to the top and Jon's solo efforts are definately the "cream of the crop". Like some Yes albums some take a bit of listening too. And their lies the problem for Yes music. Todays music listeners "haven't got the time". It's got to hit the spot first time or not at all. Us already converted Yes fans know that the music needs to be swilled around the plallete and digested slowly like a good wine. The run of the mill music listener wouldn't have a clue howto do this. I've probably gone off track from the original thread, but what I am trying to say is that Jon's solo stuff is fantastic after a few hearings.

[Flo]

Hello Yes Oz,
I'm such a great Anderson's fan I don't need to be converted. I adore him from the start (that is since year 1983) and bought all the CD where he's featured (Jon and Vangelis, Kitaro, etc.). It's true that he writes and sings excellent pieces of music but I think he gets lost sometimes in his passions and does releases some weak tracks. It's true that nowadays people don't take the time to listen and expect immediate "return on investment" and with Yes and Jon Anderson, one has to let the music flow inside little by little. What I definitely admire is his anthusiasm for life, his perpetual need to explore and experiment new things. And of course, I worship his voice. Does he have any secret to keep it like that ? Any hint ?

[RobAdams]

A music store I go to frequently has the country artist JOHN ANDERSON in the JON ANDERSON section, and vice-versa. Always found this funny and wonder if anyone else has seen this where they shop.....I always wonder if some country fan may have bought one of Jon's CD's expecting it to be country.

JON SOLO.....I find Jon's projects outside of Yes difficult to digest for the most part. I think I have typecast him as the Yes lead vocalist, making it hard to enjoy anything that doesn't sound like Yes. I do, however, have two and a half favorites from Jon without Yes.......

The half is about half of the 'Song Of Seven' album. The title track, EVERYBODY LOVES YOU, SOME ARE BORN, ALL IN A MATTER OF TIME and FOR YOU FOR ME range from not bad to great. The rest of the album is horrible.

The JON & VANGELIS projects had a few good moments here and there. One could put together a nice compilation, as long as you don't use songs like 'Friends Of Mr. Cairo' and 'Back To School'. The only JON & VANGELIS set I can enjoy from beginning to end is SHORT STORIES. Tracks like THUNDER, FAR AWAY IN BAAGDAAD,
A PLAY WITHIN A PLAY and BIRD SONG help to make SHORT STORIES my second favorite JON without YES album...

My absolute favorite JON solo affair is also the most YES-like. OLIAS OF SUNHILLOW would have been considered a new age album had it been released in a different time. Every track is an adventure. I love every moment of it, but DANCE OF RANYART, OLIAS (TO BUILD THE MOORGLADE), SOLID SPACE, MOON RA / CHORDS / SONG OF SEARCH and TO THE RUNNER are wonderful
pieces.

[Yes Oz]

I just remember one big disappointment I had from Jons solo collection. that was "Angels Embrace". Like I always do I buy his stuff without listening. In this particular case that was a big mistake. It is primarily an instrumental album and considering I enjoy jon for his vocals it left me a bit cold. Well inactual fact b****y freezing.

Love to hear someone elses opinion on this one.

It's so funny that you guys are bringing this up now as I find myself lost in Jon's solo works. Now I agree with you i-and-i regarding Song of Seven but I am an even more harsh critic. I think the only songs worth listening to are the last 2--Days and Song of Seven. The rest strikes me as Jon trying to make us believe as he does--almost like forcing it down our throats. I think about the track Take Your Time. It really grates on me. Talk about cheesy. Heart of the Matter makes me scream--and not a good scream at that. I can't believe that our Jon could release something that sounds that hokey.

The other one that I have been concentrating on is City of Angels. Hold on to Love is a stinker, I think. My friend, Squirrel, told me that he used to hear this on the radio--as the "hit" from this album. This really saddened me because besides that song and In a Lifetime, this is one terriffic recording. Hurry Home is hypnotic. If you don't have this one, get it.

What I'm working on now is to put together a CD or 2 of Jon's albums so I can be sure of hearing the best when I put him on. I have not heard Deseo and am a little afraid of it--as I have heard that there are others who sing on it. I never like that when I want to hear Jon. The Deseo Remixes is a great recording and I would highly recommend it.

And Yes Oz, I am not yet familiar with the recording you named but I'm getting there. After I have had a chance to get to know it, I'll let you know what I think.

Jon does get spotty on his solo recordings and it is such a puzzlement to me as he is such a perfectionist. How some of those songs on Song of Seven ever saw the light of day is another one of life's great mysteries to me.

[RobAdams]

Weren't most of the SONG OF SEVEN songs from around the TORMATO and the unreleased Yes album period? I forgot about DAYS...I loved DAYS. Haven't got a copy of SOS, so I'm going by memory from the vinyl days.
I wonder if Jon tried to get Yes to record HEART OF THE SUN...oops HEART OF THE MATTER and TAKE YOUR TIME? I have read that EVERYBODY LOVES YOU was being worked on for the missing 1979 album. Could be the lame material that split the band at the time?
In defense of Jon, he does seem to work best IN THE PRESENCE OF Yes musicians. Without the others' input only Jon Anderson comes through, unfiltered. Some of these peculiar things he comes up with like the rediculous BACK TO SCHOOL (Mr.Cairo w/Vangelis album) are no doubt influenced by non Yes music Jon grew up listening to. Without his solo albums, we might see a very different YES recording more of Jon's hokey numbers. Jon's solo albums provide a release for the material that would be so badly out of place on a Yes album.
One of Jon's cd's I didn't like was TOLTEC... I still like CHANGE WE MUST. Except for OLIAS, I'd have to say in my opinion that about 70% of Jon's solo work is pointless to me. Insert that Dennis Miller quote here!

Hey there i-and-i, 70% is really too strong but he does have some stinkers mixed in with gems, no doubt. Olias is great, Deseo Remixes is great, 3 Ships is also a must-have. And I would include City of Angels as a must have too. I have not heard any other solo--except for Song of Seven so I can't comment on them--yet. I will when I do though. Anyway, I think you're being too hard on our main guy. I do agree that his best works come with all the other guys in tow.

Song of Seven came out in 1977 and Tormato came out in 1978 so you might be right regarding the problems with the rest of the guys and the lame material.

I'm looking forward to hearing all the rest of it. I've kind of shied away from Jon's solo stuff because, like you I thought it would just be lame but I am finding out that I pre-judged him. There is lame stuff there but there are many jewels mixed in. I think it's worth the effort to find them. There are songs that are really great and feel eternal. Try Jon again, you'll like him!

On Jon's website I was able to find out that Song of Seven came out in 1980, not 1977 as I had originally posted. So, it appears that Song of Seven's songs were not the culprit after all.

I got into his solo works only recently--(after of course being in love with Olias at the time of its release)--after I purchased 3 Ships. When I found out for myself how wonderful 3 Ships was, I knew it was time for me to discover the rest. I have found it to be a very rewarding experience and I would recommend Jon's solo works to you all.

Of course there are caveats--they will be posted here. Stay tuned and start listening to Jon's solo works. You'll be happy.

[Flo]

To Yes Oz,
Regarding Angels'Embrace, I was surprised to hear of your disappointment. I like that album and find it relaxing. Although Jon does not sing a lot on it, it still sounds good and makes me spend good moments. Try it again please.
As for Song of Seven, I don't find it that bad and like more than half of the songs.

[Roman]

I had only a few Jon's solo albums, but got another three a few weeks ago. These are my opinions on the albums I own:

OLIAS OF SUNHILLOW - I love it. It's really a great album that takes you to a journey in your mind. My favourite songs are Moon Ra, Chords, Song of Search, To the Runner, Ocean Song.

SONG OF SEVEN - I consider this to be a very interesting album. I am a big prog-rock fan, but I like different styles too, and this is very different from anything Jon has ever made. It's a kind of intelligent pop, and I have to say, I like it, when the pop songs are intelligent. So, SOS isn't the best of Jon's solo albums, but it's worth listening. My fave songs on this are Everybody Loves You, Song of Seven, For You for Me.

IN THE CITY OF ANGELS - I don't listen to this too much, but I love some of the songs (like for example the song before Hurry Home - I don't know it's name, sorry).

DESEO - I have only a few last songs recorded on a tape, I didn't hear the whole album yet, but sounds interesting. I don't listen to it very often, but like some of the songs I have.

TOLTEC - Great album. I didn't like it the first time I listened to it, but it grew up on me. I like the Indian melodies and the sound of the whole album. The only thing I would change on this album is the voice of "the medicine man". I don't like his voice too much, but I have nothing against the speaches. I'd like when he had another voice.

CHANGE WE MUST - A good album. I love the versions of Change We Must and State of Independence that appeared here. I also like the instrumental songs.

THE MORE YOU KNOW - Didn't like this too much at the first listening exept a few songs. The album sounds interesting but I don't listen to it too much. I have selected some of the songs for a self-made collection of songs by Yes members as solo artist, and I listen to this collection more than to the whole album. My fave songs are: Heaven's Love, Faithfully, Dancing Fool, Sad.

Jon & Vangelis - I like Vangelis' music, that's why I like also the songs by Jon & Vangelis, exept some of them, which seem a little boring to me. My faves are Horizon, Mayflower, The Friends of Mr. Cairo (yes - I like this song), A Play within a Play, Birdsong and other.

[Flo]

And who knows that one :"The Promised Ring" ? It's of Irish ispiration. I must confess I have only listened to it twice or three times. I intend to explore it a little more as my first impression wasn't very good. But as we say here in this forum it takes time to really appreciate Yes and Co's music.

[jcostello]

I heard that Jon and Igor's CD was released, but I don't know where to go to get it. There was some e-mail mailing list deal a few months ago that I signed up for, to be notified when it came out and to arrange to get it, and I never heard anything back on that. I'd still like to get the album if it's good. Is it good? Please let me know.

Peace, Love, and Also, What is a Siberian Khatru, Anyway?,

John C.

[brismike]

"True You True Me" Which was the proposed title for Jon & Igor's collaboration has not been released yet.

Just another casualty in the "Yes".... long and neverending bickering and fighting each other saga. sigh !!!

Don't hold your breath waiting for a release on this one. Yes will probably tour Australia before this one comes out hahahahaha.

:)))


Mike

ps - Siberian Khatru is the 3rd song on CTTE :))

[Roman]

I thought jcostello ment what the words "Siberian Khatru" mean...

[WhiteKnight]

Originally posted by yessiree
Song of Seven came out in 1977 and Tormato came out in 1978 so you might be right regarding the problems with the rest of the guys and the lame material.

According to a.m.y.'s FAQ, Everybody Loves You was from the Paris sessions (which fall between Tormato and Drama), while Some Are Born and Days were left off Tormato.

I bought Songs of Seven yesterday (despite yessiree's critical review ;)) and, at first listen, I liked it. I heard the titletrack yesterday night (in a particular mood, I'll admit) and it sounded like heaven. Time will tell.

WK

Originally posted by WhiteKnight


According to a.m.y.'s FAQ, Everybody Loves You was from the Paris sessions (which fall between Tormato and Drama), while Some Are Born and Days were left off Tormato.

I bought Songs of Seven yesterday (despite yessiree's critical review ;)) and, at first listen, I liked it. I heard the titletrack yesterday night (in a particular mood, I'll admit) and it sounded like heaven. Time will tell.

WK

Hey there WhiteKnight, I posted a correction a day or two ago regarding the dates of release of Song of Seven--see above. I was mistaken when I said 1977 and it should have read 1980.

I agree that the title track is sublime and so is the song just preceeding it, Years. I'm also happy that you like the rest of it. Others seem happy with it too and obviously Jon liked it. That's only a good thing. I just wish I liked it more.

Have you heard City of Angels? If you like the title track of Song of Seven, I'd bet you'd like that one too.

I have also recently been listening to a couple of other recordings. Short Stories and Friends of Mr. Cairo. I haven't listened enough of either to really say but my initial impressions are: Short Stories has a couple good things on it but seems non-descript overall. More later when I get a chance to listen some more.

And I have 2 problems with Friends of Mr. Cairo. I would like to see it re-mastered and ALL of the talking removed and while they are at it, I would like to see the sound levels evened out. I have found that there are very many times when the volume level is so low that I can barely hear it. When I turn it up, the very next moment, it is so loud it breaks my ears. This goes on throughout the recording. This phenomena is so widespread that when the volume goes low and I can hardly hear it, I'm hesitant to turn it up for fear of the extreme loud that inevitably follows. I can't imagine what they were thinking when they put this together.

The second to last song on the recording is a stinker--something rock and roll--sounds like Elvis. I cringed through that whole song. Overall, musically there are some interesting themes but all that talking really impairs my ability to enjoy it--not to mention the audio levels.

[WhiteKnight]

Hello again yessiree:

Originally posted by yessiree
Have you heard City of Angels? If you like the title track of Song of Seven, I'd bet you'd like that one too.

As I mentioned in a previous post, yes, I have itCoA, although I have the impression I will like Song of Seven better. City of Angels is probably my least favorite Jon album, at the moment.

About Friends of Mr. Cairo, I like it a lot. Besides and Inside of This (or whatever that's called) are masterpieces for me, almost Yes-level. But really I like the whole album overall. I like Private Collection (which I think was J&V's next release) about as much; I strongly recommend it if you didn't get it yet.

Of course Mr.Cairo has its low points, and the titletrack is possibly one of them (although I don't hate it), while Back to School is definitely one of them. But (maybe because the Zeps were my first rock love) I can probably take more rock'n'roll than you (for example, Heart of the Matter is lightyears from classic Yes, but it made me smile when I first listened to it this morning.

And yes, Mr.Cairo has some level problem.

WK

Sorry I missed your post about the City of Angels WhiteKnight. I am surprised though that it is your least favorite. Next time you put it on, omit the first track completely. That might help with proper coloration of the sound. There are a couple other stinkers on it too, For You is one and the other one is It's On Fire. The rest of it is great--to me.

Yes I agree that Cairo has some good moments and some haunting themes but the caveats I mentioned make it difficult for me to listen to and get to know it completely.

[Earl Grey]

A certain YESFAN sent me a copy of Jon's 'Three Ships' CD for Christmas... It was a 'burnt' copy, as it's out of print, so I wont mention names here: but YOU know who you are! Thank you again, dear.

Being a total cretin, I failed to mention this gift on the thread that I actually started: 'What YES did you get for Xmas?'

Well Xmas isn't about 'getting' but is about giving: "Three Ships" was a wonderful gift, far above Roger Dean litho's/etc.

Jon is Jon.

I listened to 'The Holly & The Ivy' a gazillion times during the holiday and was much happier for it. Trevor even sounded spirited on the CD. My other holiday CD's were by Willie Nelson & some faceless entity from Manneheim. Nothing like Jon!

If you haven't heard this one, I recommend it as the official YESSISH Xmas album: Three Ships by Jon Anderson.

You will have to get it as a gift, as it isn't in print anymore.

:ele:

[BredYes]

Many of you forget Change We Must and that is strange because I think it is by far the best solo album. Beautiful songs with orchestral arrangements. Even more classical influences than on Magnification. When people are visiting us I often put that CD in the stereo. I always receive very positive reactions, including from people who don't like Yes (even my mother likes it). Someone wants to buy it, but that was not possible because it seems that it is out of production.

I like Toltec too. I'm not very impressed by all the other albums.

[Squireaholic]

Another solo Jon that has been left out of this discussion is the excellent Animation (which I think is Out of Print). Probably his most straight ahead 'Rock' work, released in 1982, Animation featured Jack Bruce on Bass and some guy named Trevor on guitar! I believe it was the firsty time Jon and Trevor worked together, as Jack B. reccomended Trevor to Jon. Who else remembers Animation?

[Roman]

I know only one song from Animation: All in a Matter of Time, which I have on the Yes Family Album. I would like to get the whole album because I like this song very much. But here is the problem: There is no CD outing of Animation and I don t know anyone who ownes an LP or cassette of it. What a pity we don t this on CD!

[Roman]

P.S.: to BredYes: I also think Change We Must is a good album and I have some similar experience with other people hearing this. For example my roommate at the college last year said he likes the Duet song and the other songs sound also good to him. And he didnt like Yes too much (he hated Relayer when he heard it).

[Yes Oz]

I've given Angels Embrace a few more listens recently as you suggested but still can't get into it. I understand how you can relax and drift away with this sort of music but it doesn't do anything for me.

I see you mentioned the Promise Ring and how you wish to explore that a bit more. I hope you do as it has some great tracks particularly from a vocal point of view. I kind of enjoy the irish music as I have a bit of irish ancestry in me (my dad).

Originally posted by Roman
I would like to get the whole album because I like this song very much. But here is the problem: There is no CD outing of Animation and I don t know anyone who ownes an LP or cassette of it. What a pity we don t this on CD!

Well, here I go again. I have Animation--the LP. I have only heard it a couple of times. Not enough to say much about it so I won't comment on that part of it. But I had a friend make a cd from the LP for me. I could probably make you a copy of the cd, if you're really nice (just kidding, I already know you're nice). (this international postage is killing me!) Anyone else wanting a copy of the cd should ask Roman and then the chain can go from there.

How's that?

[Flo]

Never mind Yes Oz, despite being Yes fans we all have different tastes and that what makes the interest of this site. Since I have registered on this forum, it's incredible how I have kepts listening to Yes and Co. and discovered new things thanks to all of you.

[Roman]

Yessiree, I have just sent an email to you about it. Hope everything will go well. Thank you for your complaisance.

[Yes Oz]

Flo.....couldn't agree more with those sentiments. In fact I have a dream that one day we can all meet in one venue and put names to faces and have a good yarn about Yes, our Yes experiences, listen to Yes and enjoy a few drinks to wash the experience down. Of course ti would have to last for days. we start with the very first Yes album and workour way through. I think the liver would give up before the ears. But what an experience!!!!!!!

[Squireaholic]

May I suggest to Yessiree that it's time to go back and listen to Animation again. You may find it rewarding, esp. in the context of the 20 years following its release.

Absolutamente Squireaholic! (I love your name by the way). I have in no way given up on Animation. I just have not had the time to spend with it as I have been acquiring a lot of old Jon recordings lately and there is a lot to listen to. Only so much time in life. But Animation is certainly in my plans and in my future. I'll post more about it once I become more familiar. Thanks for the encouragement.

[Roman]

Today I listened to "The Promise Ring" for the first time. I didn't buy it (I don't have enough money now), I listened to it in the CD store. It sounded good to me, the only problem was, that the songs sounded too similar. But I like this sort of "celtic" music and Jon's voice really sounded interesting in the combination with Eirish music. I think, when I get some money, I will buy it.

[Song Of Seven]

I'm a great lover of all Jon's solo work,but the album that had the greatest influence on me was Animation.

Animation came out in 1982, the year before I was married. In 1986 our first child was born and on the way to the hospital in the car I was playing the title track,which I'm sure most of you will know is about the birth of Jon's daughter.

I was there when my wife gave birth to our first child and lyrics to that song reflected just how we felt as our daughter was born.As the lyrics say "Tell me things that our fore fathers have tried,I'll tell in life there is nothing to touch the birth of a child" and "The moment I saw the look in her eyes, I new I was captured by an Angel in disguise"

We had already decided that if we had a daughter we would name her Holly,but after she was born we added the middle names Jade Genevieve. She is 16 now and everyone calls her Holly Jade.

[Yes Oz]

Great story song of seven, something precious about witnessing the birth of your own children. I have never heard Animation, I wonder if it is still available????

Animation is not available except on e-bay. There was some talk of re-releasing it--a year or so ago but nothing seems to have come from it.

Update on Jon's music:

I just listened to Jon's Chagall 2 cd set today for the first time. As this has never been officially released and there is some talk that Jon does not think that it is completely finished, my recommendation would be to wait until Jon says it's done to buy it. The overall sound and concept is good BUT there is waaay too much talking on it--and not by Jon. It's like Jon sings a song then there is a track in which there is a male narrator speaking and this goes on throughout the entire 2 cd set. He even has a female vocalist on it. It would be difficult to edit out to copy only the Jon songs as sometimes they are enmeshed with the talking and the female vocalist.

And I don't know about you, but when I put on a Jon cd, I only want to hear Jon. It bothers me when I hear anyone else. For example, my only problem with 3 ships is that he has some female singer sing the 2nd verse of Oh Holy night. So I just cut that part out and everything is ok again. I don't know why he does that. HE's who we want to hear, that's why we buy his cd.

The Cd has an interesting story--it's like a biography of Chagall. And it reminded me of some of what Jon's life might be like. I got the feeling that Chagall's life story interested him because it was similar to his in some ways--the rise to fame, the disappointments, the women in his life...

So, save your money if you are contemplating shelling out the major bucks for this cd. Wait till Jon says it's ready and releases it officially.

Been doing more listening and want to update.

First of all, WhiteKnight was right. I just had not spent enough time with The friends of Mr. Cairo to fully appreciate it. Though, I still would have preferred that Jon leave off Peter Lorre, Jimmy Stewart and all those other guys, I'm finding the music (still all except for Back to School) really wonderful. That Back to School track, I can't even listen to. It just grates on me. I particularly like the first track--I'll Find My Way Home. Very nice.

The next one is Short Stories.
This is really good. There is one song on it, "One More Time" that I want to mention. Now I have heard Jon sing many many times. But I don't think I have ever heard him sing like he sings on that song. There is something particularly special about the quality of his voice on that song. I can't quite put my finger on it, but it is nothing short of spectacular. I just get all gooey-eyed when I hear him sing that song. The whole cd is really really good. I would highly recommend it.

At first, my plan was to just glean the best from several Jon recordings and make one cd. Well with these two the only cut I want removed is Back to School. If you don't have them, you should get them, while you still can--if they are even in print. If not, check out e-bay. They're really good.

[Flo]

Yessiree, I find you are very exclusive about Jon Anderson. Let him the right to share vocals with other people. It's him we want to listen to, ok, but sometimes it can be nice to hear him accompanied by other people. I have in mind a beautiful song, on Change we must : "Chagall duet" where he sings with a female Soprano (with French lyrics, a fact which I particularly appreciate, being French). On that track I think the mixture of the two different voices is really great. Usually Jon chooses some good singers to sing along with him.

Well, Flo, I'm glad that you can appreciate it when Jon puts someone else on his recordings to sing with him. I'm certain he wants us to enjoy it. But as you say, I'm too exclusive when it comes to Jon. Yes, I think that's true. It doesn't bother me as much if they are waaaaaay in the background but to take over the lead? Its not to my taste. (I have not heard the song you referred to because I have not received my copy yet. Just bought it on e-bay.)

And the other thing I wish Jon would do is to remove saxaphones from his choice of instruments which accompany him. His voice is already so sweet that, I think the the saxaphone has a tendency to syrupy-up the sound and give it too much of a "middle-of-the-road---easy listening" sound. I'm thinking now of a couple of the songs on City of Angels that I like a lot and even on Short Stories. I'm really getting into it and just loving the sound, then that saxaphone comes in and I feel almost as if I'm in an elevator. As much as I really love those particular songs, each time I hear them, I find myself wishing that instrument were not there.

Now, I'm sure Jon is going to listen to me. HAH!

[jcostello]

Originally posted by Roman
I thought jcostello ment what the words "Siberian Khatru" mean...

Yes, I also asked about that (by the way, thank you for the update on the Jon and Igor album ... why hasn't it been released, anyway?). What is a "Siberian Khatru"? Is it some kind of bird?

Peace, Love, and Hope I Don't Have to Travel to Siberia to Find Out,

John C.

P.S. Some short comments on Jon solo and Jon and Vangelis:

"Olias" is my favorite Jon solo album, although I think highly of "Change We Must," as well. I like "Song of Seven" and "Animation," although not as much as "Olias." (I always pull out those two around Christmas time, along with "Three Ships." Mixed reviews on the more recent Jon solo CDs. I thought "Angels Embrace" was boring. I liked "Deseo," and liked the "Deseo Remixes" even more. "More We Know" didn't leave a lasting impression. I liked the "Promise Ring" (Jon with Irish/Scottish musicians is a natural). Which Jon solo album(s) am I forgetting? "Olias" is the only one I play as much as I play Yes albums.

As for Jon and Vangelis, "Friends of Mr. Cairo" is a fun album. I was less impressed by "Short Stories" and by the other two. There's a sort of inertia to J & V's music that only works for me in certain moods.

One song I'm groovin' on right now, here at work is a song from Short Stories called, Love Is. Talk about a powerhouse of emotion! If I was not in love before, I surely am now. That Jon is so gifted in his ability to access deep emotion through lyrics and the use of his vocal talents! I've known this forever but when I hear him on this song, I'm just captivated.

So, I made up a 80 minute Jon Cd that is pretty good. You might want to try it:

From Song of Seven
Days
Song of Seven

From City of Angels
If It Wasn't For Love
Sundancing
Is It Me
For You
New Civilization
It's On Fire
Top of The World (The Guitar work on this song reminds me of The Cure--would be timely as Cure was so big when this song came out)
Hurry Home

From Short Stories
I Hear You Now
Love Is
One More Time
A Play Within A Play

From Friends of Mr. Cairo
I'll Find My Way Home

Difficult decisions--what to keep off--ran out of room. But part two will be coming soon to get the rest of the best.

Try it, you'll like it.

[WhiteKnight]

If I was to burn a "best of Jon" myself (which I want to do, sooner or later), it could be something like this:

- Flight of the Moorglade (Olias)
- To the Runner (Olias)
- Song of Seven (Song of Seven)
- Amor Real (Deseo)
- Floresta (Deseo)
- Besides (Mr. Cairo)
- Inside of This, Outside of That (Mr. Cairo)
- State of Independence (Mr. Cairo)
- Italian Song (Private Collection)
- Polonaise (Private Collection)
- Deborah (Private Collection)
- A Play within a Play (Short Stories)
- New Civilization (City of Angels)
- Is It Me (City of Angels)
- Youth (More You Know)

Note for yessiree: I still recommend Private Collection (it's not a collection, mind you). And, something I forgot in previous posts: of all the songs of Mr. Cairo that I consider "classics", State of Independence is probably the peak.

WK

Hey WhiteKnight, I'm working on getting a copy of Private Collection as we speak. Now that I've heard those 2 Jon/Vangellis cd's, I want them all.

Yes, State of Independence is wonderful. I wanted to include that on my cd too but when it came time to put it on, I ran out of disc space. It will be on the next one though, for sure.

[Dakini]

This is a great site! So nice to hear how many people are into Jon's solo works and appreciate his creative diversity. You have inspired me to make a "fave Jon song" cd.(or two)
Here is my Jon collection:
on vinyl
Animation
Three Ships

on cd
Olias
Short Stories
Song of Seven
Friends of Mr. Cairo
Deseo
Toltec
City of Angels
Angels Embrace
Change We Must
Page of Life
Private Collection
Best of Jon and Vangelis
Portraits (jon and vangelis)
Kitaro - Dream (with jon)

I would be happy to "share" any of my collection with interested parties. Just send me an email...
Well I have some songs to pick out! Gonna get that cd burned so I can listen to it at work tomorrow!

Yes, Dakini. Jon's solo works are simply a joy. Then again, how could they not be?

So glad you enjoy them too!

I've got Each and Everyday rolling around inside my head. It is such a delight. Jon is the master at interpretation And creation.

[BredYes]

Dear Yes friends,

I have a question?
Is it true that my favorite Jon Anderson Album: Change we Must is out of print?
I want to buy it for some friends/family who like that album very much but I can not find it in the stores or internet. I have a cd myself, but I don't want to burn it because that is against my principles about rewarding true music and musicians, like our friend Jon. But if I can not buy it I have no choice.

BredYes

[Yes Oz]

burn one for me. The cheque is in he mail. I hadn't even heard of this album until this thread was started. We can't even get current albums released in this country (Magnification) so what hope have i got of even importing this one. So if you have to burn a copy or two I'll take one off your hands. Just name your price!!!!

Originally posted by BredYes
Is it true that my favorite Jon Anderson Album: Change we Must is out of print?

Hey BredYes, I just went to the Amazon.com site and they at first reported limited availability. I looked further and then they said that not only did they not have any but that they had a buyer waiting for a used copy as they did not even have any used copies. So, I'd say, burn away. It's too bad. Those Jon albums are GEMS.

[Kevin Still]

Still love that one. Simple yet satisfying. Like a piece of fresh Itialian bread with no butter!!!!

Hi Kevin, welcome to Yesfans!

I have not heard that one yet but I hope to soon. I've come to Jon's albums late and can't believe that I have not been listening sooner. They are simply wonderful. I like them every bit as much as I like Magnification. And I love Magnification.

[Devotee]

I can't believe I didn't find this thread sooner!
I love Jon's solo work, and I truly admire his diversity. My fav. of course is Olias (duh). Since I have been a student of all things mystical I really like the spiritual things like Angel's Embrace, and Toltec. City of Angels is probably his "best" because of the production. Top of the World is one of my fav. songs. State of Independance is my #1 fav. and I like both versions. being a classical music lover I was overjoyed with Change We Must (and of course Magnification). Short Stories is my fav. with Vangelis, and the others are just there when I'm in the mood for something different. EarthMotherEarth is great in the morning. 3 Ships is alot of fun while putting up xmas decorations.
My first encounter with Jon was during his Animation Tour. I think it's one of his best, and I really wish it would be rereleased on cd. Oh well, can't have everything, where would I keep it?

I don't know where the hell you've been Devotee but I'm glad you finally arrived!

I Hear You Now is running through my head right now. When I first put it on, I remembered that this was the one track I heard on the radio--a million years ago--or was that a commercial? Anyway, I thought it was pleasant enough. Then, I decided to get ahold of the lyrics. After that, it was all over. Now, I am literally weak when I hear that song. I can barely keep my knees working when I'm walking. It's just that good.

We are all so blessed to have Jon sing to us the way he does and to have him create the way he does. He is so gifted and gives of himself so freely. He is simply a joy.

[Dakini]

wait till you hear State of Independence on the Change We Must.
gotta love it! Dakini

[RobAdams]

I miss my CHANGE WE MUST cassette I once had. I never see the CD anywhere. I loved that album. It also has a nice version of HEARTS.

[Dakini]

It's such a moving version of HEARTS! I LOVE it. Do you still have your cassette? I hope so! I'm hearing that Change we Must is out of print. One of my fave Jon cds.

[Flo]

Hello Yessiree,
You said you were to get Change we must soon. I'd like to have your comments on it. I like it more and more since I've been re-discovering it.

[BrianD]

Just scrolled through this thread so am catching up. For what its worth, Animation is my favourite - have had to tape my LP to play it in the car! Oh I wish they would release the CD. It is probably his most consistent album - Olympia, Animation, All in a Matter of Time, Unlearning and Pressure Point being favourites. And of course it contains Boundaries - reworked on The Promise Ring as O'er and Open Your Eyes as Somehow, Someday - but the original is the best!

Overall, I am constantly struck by the incredible variety in Jon's solo works. They are a bit uneven in quality - both in terms of production values and composition but each has a number of amazing songs. Latin, Gaelic, orchestral, New Age, Pop and so on - its hard to know where all of the inspiration comes from.

Olias has always been a favourite - couldn't stop playing it when it was first released then rediscovered again a few years ago on CD. I think its the only album that sounds at all like Yes Music - the rest are quite a departure apart from some of the obvious Jon solo tracks on Yes albums.

Song of Seven - a few good tracks but overall I think its one of his weakest albums.

The collaborations with Vangelis - all are good albums, Private Collection being my favourite.

City of Angels - some very good songs 'Top of the World', Sundancing and Hold on to love being personal favourites.

Three Ships - a couple of good tracks - Save all your love, Easier said than done, How it hits you - but in the main disappointing

Change we must - one of my favourites - especially State of independence and Chagall duet

Earthmotherearth - quaint, spontaneous...fresh

Angels Embrace - new age bland and boring - can't get into it at all. 0/10

The Promise Ring - fun but not a personal favourite as I am not a big fan of gaelic music

Deseo - one of my favourites, I really enjoy the latin sound.

Have only got a few tracks from The More we Know but not overly impressed.

Haven't heard Toltec so can't comment.

Despite the variability, most of his albums are interesting in different ways so I guess I'll keep buying them!

[Dakini]

Anyone have Jon's Page of Life cd? I haven't listened to it in quite s ome time and got it out this week for a listen and found that I was singing right along really enjoying it!

Thanks for your thoughts, all.

And BrianD, I'll have to give Animation more serious listening due to your and other's recommendations. I've only had a chance to listen to it a couple of times now. Also, BrianD, I'm really surprised by your reaction to 3 Ships. Have you tried to listen to it during the Christmas season? It runs rings around EVERYTHING else Christmas in my opinion. (I personally don't listen to ANY Christmas music--ever. I'm too "bah humbug". But I can listen and really enjoy Jon's foray into that genre.) I think it is just a delight--except when that female singer comes in on the second verse of Oh Holy Night. But I've talked about that before. So, I'll take your recommendation of Animation, and how about you taking mine of listening to 3 Ships during Christmas? We got a deal? Let me know if it makes a difference.

[Flo]

Page of Life is great : nice melodies, nice songs. You would also like the Kitaro "Dream" where Jon is featured on three songs.

I'll bet you're right Flo. I hope to get Page of Life this week. I'll have to work on getting Dream. And how about Legend soundtrack? Is it worth buying for that one Jon song? As I'm asking it, it seems like a silly question.

[Dakini]

Have Kitaro Dream...another I haven't listened to in some time.
Guess I need to get it out and play it again! I dig it I dig it....
pax! Dakini

[Flo]

Hey Yessiree, you're catching up with Jon's album. As you started this thread I thought you already owned all of his works !

[BrianD]

Yessiree - You'll have to remind me to play 3 ships nearer to Christmas. Down here, with Christmas in the middle of summer and it being too hot for what many of you might regard as normal fare at that time, we often have a traditional style northern hemisphere winter 'Yuletide' in June/July when we have the turkey with trimmings and other festive season accompaniments. So if we do that this year - I'll play it then!

QUOTE]Originally posted by Flo
Hey Yessiree, you're catching up with Jon's album. As you started this thread I thought you already owned all of his works ! [/QUOTE]

Heck no Flo. That was one reason I started the thread--so I could see which would be worth owning. Since starting the thread I have been listening to a few of Jon's solo works--mind you, that I have only recently procured and listened to for the first time. As a matter of fact, the only Jon album I've had for years is Olias. Everything else is brand new to me. There are lots I don't have but hope to have very soon (a couple thanks to a little bird that we know :)). Also since fully experiencing the ones I do have, I've come to know that I must have them all. And as crazed as I am about the Jon boy, I have always been hesitant to spend time with his solo works thinking that they would be too twee for my taste. See, I was under the false idea that all of his solo stuff was just more things like, "If Only You Knew". Was I ever wrong! His stuff is GREAT! I'm mad at myself for not keeping up with him as he was creating them. I don't know what I was thinking. It's funny how a person can be so wrong about something. I'm just glad glad glad I finally found them. And I have Toit-Tom to thank for that. Thanks Tom--a lot!

Originally posted by BrianD
Yessiree - You'll have to remind me to play 3 ships nearer to Christmas. Down here, with Christmas in the middle of summer and it being too hot for what many of you might regard as normal fare at that time, we often have a traditional style northern hemisphere winter 'Yuletide' in June/July when we have the turkey with trimmings and other festive season accompaniments. So if we do that this year - I'll play it then!

So BrianD, you guys play Christmas music in June/July? I'll do my best to help remind you. I want you to report back with your experience when you do to tell us how, when played at the appropriate time--how it makes a difference.

[Flo]

Yessiree, I'm glad you're enjoying so much Jon's work. I used to think some of what he did was twee, but since I've started browsing Yes fans I have listened more and more with a new ear. I really like most of what he did. It's incredible how productive he's been in the years 1994-1996.

Originally posted by Flo
It's incredible how productive he's been in the years 1994-1996.

Yes, I'm constantly being amazed by the same thing. The guy is a genius.

[Yes Oz]

Yessiree.........I'm sure glad you did start this thread. I can't believe how many solo albums I've never heard of, let alone heard. I will have to go back through the post and make a list of titles I haven't got and see what is still available. yes you are right the guy is a genius. Will the music world ever see another like him.........I think not (IMO).

When you're right, you're right, Yes Oz!

[Dakini]

Just wanted to "agree" that Jon is very special indeed. His music genius blows me away everytime. Listening to Wisdom Chain from Page of Life as I type away! Great lyrics in that song!! wow!

Hey Dakini, I've got a mix from Short Stories and Mr. Cairo on right now. Talk about happiness inducing!

[bjm0rwo]

I'm in the same arena as YesOz.I must have been sleeping for a few years because I am amazed at the wealth of material I am ignorant of.I do have Short Stories and Olias but that's it.I'll have to check out some more titles here in the future.Great informative post!

Ok Animation fans, I need your help. I have been listening to Animation now, almost non-stop for a few days and am having some problems. I can't think of even one song on it that fills me with wonder and delight in the same way as just about anything on Short Stories. What am I missing?

The whole thing seems fast--somehow--a quick tempo and it seems too fast. Now, I admit I don't know what i'm talking about as I am not a musician. But it does not seem to be of the quality as his other works. I don't really sense the deep confidence that I see in his other works. And I hate to say this, but it seems to border on the cheezy. Even on Song of Seven, which I was quite disappointed with, at least had 2 excellent songs on it. I have not found this with Animation.

Please be kind. It troubles me too.

[BrianD]

Yessiree - are you listening at the right speed? Can't comprehend why you wouldn't enjoy Animation. It is worth owning the album for the title track alone. That song brings tears to my eyes - maybe because my first daughter was born around that time.

Produced by Tony Visconti (who produced a lot of Bowie's records), the album has some of his influence in style - somewhat poppish I admit but great melodies.

I found Animation the most instantly enjoyable album of his solo works.

To each his/her own I guess!

I can't comprehend either, BrianD. This is very troublesome. Have you heard Short Stories or Friends of Mr. Cairo? Do you know what I mean by the songs on Short Stories?

I have not given up though.

[BrianD]

Certainly do - they are both great albums - quite different from Animation so it may just relate to our particular musical preferences. I think its the strong melodies on Animation that appeal to me - the other two albums are generally more complex in the song structure with less reliance on melody.

[Dakini]

Hi Bri!
Hey I got to meet Tony Visconti a few years ago. He has also worked with the Moody Blues. I was attending some concerts in Tahoe and he was there. Was sitting outside waiting on his ride.
I had a very old Moody Poster from the Filmore days and asked him to sign it which he was happy to. Very nice gentleman. He said he was in the area so decided to pop in and see the concert.

Hey BrianD, thanks. I'll keep that in mind when I next listen.

[Squireaholic]

Pat: try not to overevaluate when you listen to Animation. Take it in it's own context; Jon's intent was to simply put out a good time rock record. I consider the title track and All in a Matter of Time to be the touchpoints of the recording. Just grab a beer (or three), put on Animation and forget that Jon is a 'Space Cadet Icon' for 55 minutes (I hope I don't get flamed for that!)
Good advice I hope!

Hey Squireaholic, no reason for flaming on this lovely site. I think that an argument can certainly be made of Jon's Space Cadet status and I personally don't think there is anything wrong with that. The Main Man that he is, can come from anywhere he wants to. hahaha

Anyway, I'll try to listen with new ears, a sort of Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind, if you will.

Thanks for the tips.

[Devotee]

Wow, this is fun. I have personally found that if I have expectations for Jon's work, then I just don't get it. An open mind is essential because you never know where he's coming from. I really like Short Stories, but Friends of Mr. Cairo seems hokey to me ( though I love I'll Find My Way Home, and State of Independence). Song of Seven seems weak after Olias, but it was all I had back then, and I learned to love it. The 94-96 phase has alot of diversity, and no one seems to talk about Change We Must - one of my personal favorites.
I can't imagine that he does all these things because he thinks we will like everything. I'm pretty sure he does alot of this stuff because HE likes it. As he should. Go gettum Jon!

Originally posted by Devotee
Wow, this is fun. I have personally found that if I have expectations for Jon's work, then I just don't get it. An open mind is essential because you never know where he's coming from. I really like Short Stories, but Friends of Mr. Cairo seems hokey to me ( though I love I'll Find My Way Home, and State of Independence). Song of Seven seems weak after Olias, but it was all I had back then, and I learned to love it. The 94-96 phase has alot of diversity, and no one seems to talk about Change We Must - one of my personal favorites.
I can't imagine that he does all these things because he thinks we will like everything. I'm pretty sure he does alot of this stuff because HE likes it. As he should. Go gettum Jon!

You're right again Devotee, this is so much fun! I have not given up on Animation yet. I still have more listening to do. What do you think of it? How does it rate, say, with Short Stories to you? I'd love your opinion.

Regarding Mr. Cairo, I agree that those 2 songs you mentioned are clearly the winners on it. Even so, I still enjoy everything else on it A LOT except for Back To School which I cannot listen to. Also, I think I would enjoy it more if they did not have those sound effects--gun shots, shrieking car tires, whining women, Peter Lorre and such. But, even for that, I figured that Jon was experimenting with a new form for him. Not too many people were doing things like that back then and so I can see him wanting to stretch himself into something new.

That's kind of how I see Animation. That he was stretching himself into something not familiar and not being as successful as he might have been. Obviously he liked it or there would not have been a push to re-release it a couple of years ago.

I have not heard Change We Must but hope to soon through the good efforts of our fine Yesfans here. I'll provide an update as soon as I am educated. I'm very much looking forward to coming to know all of Jon's stuff.

And I agree with you, Devotee--Go getum Jon! Keep making music. Keep coming back. Keep coming back. Keep coming back. And, no, I'm not a friend of Bill W. I just like his mantra!

[BrianD]

Originally posted by Dakini
Hi Bri!
Hey I got to meet Tony Visconti a few years ago. He has also worked with the Moody Blues. I was attending some concerts in Tahoe and he was there. Was sitting outside waiting on his ride.
I had a very old Moody Poster from the Filmore days and asked him to sign it which he was happy to. Very nice gentleman. He said he was in the area so decided to pop in and see the concert.

Hi Dakini
Did you realise who he was when you met him?

I must amend my previous post - Tony Visconti didn't produce the whole of Animation, only part of it. Neil Kernon and Jon were the main producers. Sorry to mislead.

[Earl Grey]

I've heard the Jon/Vangelis albums... Which I really enjoyed.

Pat gave me '3 Ships' for Xmas, which is the Neutron bomb! I played it over & over &.....

I've been a bad Jon-fan, I haven't heard any other Jon albums... (blush!).

Which one to purchase? Hmmm?

Let me know, if you could only have one, which would it be? I promise to go and buy it as soon as you tell me!

So, which one?

Thatsall folks!

:yesbird:

[RobAdams]

Earl Gray

I'm writing you a prescription for OLIAS OF SUNHILLOW. Go to www.metrocityrecords.com and see if they still have it. I got mine from them, and they delivered pretty fast. I got the German import for about 18 dollars. It's his best from what I've heard.
I still haven't heard all of Jon's solo & non-Yes stuff, but that one's a good start.

[Devotee]

My recommendation for #2 is in the City of Angels

Ah hell Earl they're all good in their own ways. Get 'em all dude.

That's what I was thinking too Devotee. But I didn't want to say anything until I heard them all. I'm committed to getting them all because the quality of the ones I've heard is so good.

So Earl, which Jon/Vangelis have you heard? Do you have a favorite among those?

[BrianD]

Of the J&V albums, I lean towards Private Collection but I don't think there is much between them. The main track on the album, Horizons, is a long epic that seems to peter out midway but the first half is well worth a listen. I also like He is sailing and And when the night comes.


The two compilation CDs are Ok except that on 'The best of...' State of Independence is edited (a travesty) and on 'Chronicles 'He is sailing' is edited. I can never understand why they do this - obviously for space on the CD - but artistically the songs are ruined.

[Earl Grey]

:ele: :ele: :ele: :ele:
:ele: :ele: :ele:
:ele: :ele:
:ele: a gazillion dancing pink elephants to drown in your near-beer! Haha! Hope it's the best EVER compadre!

Thank you guys for the suggestions on JON: I'm going to check out the local record-hut to see if they have it, and if not I'll try metrocity.......
Olias seems to be the ticket: Pat, I'm not sure of the titles (There were two though, right? I heard them both: and missed Steve Howe of course! But my favorite VANGELIS solo album has to be the soundtrack to Blade Runner ..... a sonic feast there!).

I'll tell you what I think after Olias!

Earl Grey

There are quite a few Jon/Vangelis ventures, Earl. I have Short Stories and Mr. Cairo right now and would highly recommend them both. Can you think of any of the song titles from the Jon/Vangelis recordings you have. Perhaps that way, we can find the title. I'm really surprised you don't already have Olias. Did you never have it? If not, you will be surprised by all the songs you know. They used to play that a lot on the radio when it came out---a lot of the album, not just one song. And yes, do tell us what you think. Also, are you aware that Jon does all the musical instruments on Olias? He's such a genius.

And BrianD, I have not heard the recordings you mentioned--the compilation discs but I cannot even begin to imagine how anyone could think of cutting down State of Independence. I am agast! Leave it off completely insteading of ruining it.

[Earl Grey]

was one of them, and I'm not sure of the other: they were heard at my buddy Ken's a long time ago...
GASP! I have never personally bought a JON album: I was always kind of a Howe-snob...
And you will HATE this: I used to think Jon was great as a front person for YES, but didn't think that he had the 'instrumental' chops that the other YES members had to spike my interest.
Well, Jon's voice IS the penultimate instrument, and I was wrong back when.
Over the last couple years I have seen the error of my ways concerning Jon (haha! Genuflect and repeat 10 hail Jons, 5 how's your Universal Mother's)....

I guess evolution is a process, and I'm hopefully learning new 'obvious' things every day!

:) Earlie

[Devotee]

you will be forgiven as you immerse yourself in Olias...

Just in case anyone thinks we're out of our minds, Jon is a wonderfully inspiring person, and a musical genius. It is very easy to idolize him, and I've heard of those who practically worship him. While I have my moments of idolsing (see my photo on the OPIO Foundation wisdom chain), I do not worship him. Like the Buddha pointing to the moon, he wants us to see the light, not merely his finger pointing to it. OMJONOM.

[Earl Grey]

Oops. A pot of lentils burning up on the radar range! Gotta go!
Haha.... You're the bomb Devotee!

ps: I looked for Olias just now at our local recordslut... NOTHING by the inimitable Sir Jon.

Jon's finger. Good name for a band.
See ya!

Earlmeister.

[hypatiamarshall]

To Squireaholic: Of course I remember Animation!!! Like Song of Seven, I remember the song really well because my daughter Aurora was born the same year as Deborah (all of those dear people....).

I have:

Olias of Sunhillow (Earl, this is a MUST. I have been listening to this for over 20 years, and I NEVER get tired of it!)
Animation (Hear me now!...)
We Three Ships
Short Stories
Song of Seven (It is interesting some don't care for this album. I love it! This proves the versatility of Jon.)
Deseo
Toltec
Promise Ring
earthmotherearth (fantastic whale song, the best for sleeping, like the sound of ocean waves)
Change We Must
Open Your Eyes

[Dakini]

hypa!
I am so glad to hear that you like Song of Seven. Not many fans seem to care for it. I have grown to love that cd. Bet you would like Page of Life and Private Collection.
Friends of Mr Cairo as well.
pax, Dakini

[RobAdams]

Oops I read something wrong before. Can I borrow yer glasses Yessiree?

Anyone remember the original black & white cover for MR CAIRO album? That version didn't have I'LL FIND MY WAY HOME on it. The album was released again soon after with a different cover, and with I'LL FIND MY WAY HOME added.


Severely edited post!!!

i-and-i, I don't know about a song called Here Me Now. It's not on either Animation or Short Stories. I Hear You Now is a song on Short stories and I remember that one being played on the radio so it could have been a single. I think it was even a commercial at one point.

And, Jan, don't leave out The Deseo Remixes. It's great too.

Earl, I can hardly believe that you never owned a copy of Olias. I don't know why I find that hard to believe but it was so pervasive when it first came out that I thought every Yes fan had one. It was huge at the time and received quite a bit of airplay.

[hypatiamarshall]

Did I say, Open Your Eyes? Geeeez, I am sorry. What was I thinking? Maybe Jon opens my eyes. Yeah, that's the ticket. hahaha

Jan in Erie CO

[hypatiamarshall]

I thought I would listen to Song of Seven while cleaning the house.

Days

Ascend the swallows....
The trees that glisten....
To pour into my senses
The days are blessings
The days are blessings
The days are blessings

Who has ever read more beautiful words than these!!!?????
And the intertwining harp is miraculous!

Jan in Erie CO

P.S. By the way, does anyone know what the imagery on the outside of the album means exactly. Some of it reminds me of the Sistine Chapel. I recognize the Pleiades, a star cluster.....

Lucky you Jan! I wish I could put on Days right now. It's so lovely and wonderful.

[hypatiamarshall]

You don't have a copy of Song of Seven? I am shocked! If anyone would, it would be you.

Jan in Erie CO

[Dakini]

hey I have that old version of Mr Cairo on album and then got the newer version on cd. Just listened to it yesterday in fact. Listening to Page of Life at the moment. the song Garden of Senses....beautiful song.

[Devotee]

Originally posted by hypatiamarshall


P.S. By the way, does anyone know what the imagery on the outside of the album means exactly. Some of it reminds me of the Sistine Chapel. I recognize the Pleiades, a star cluster..... [/B]

Hi everyone, devotee here (guess where the moniker came from?)

There are symbols from all the major religions on Song of Seven, and of course his own "olias" symbol as well. Our boy Jon has been into this "we are all one" thing for a long time now.
Funny , I don't recall Olias getting any air play in LA. Maybe it was because I was too busy listening to Yes Albums. I found it shortly after it's release in the bargin bin at Licorice Pizza.

[hypatiamarshall]

I started a separate thread on the symbols of Song of Seven.

I hope I get some illuminating responses.

Jan in Erie CO

Originally posted by hypatiamarshall
You don't have a copy of Song of Seven? I am shocked! If anyone would, it would be you. Jan in Erie CO

Oh, Jan, I have it, it's just I was at work when I read your post and they have now forbidden me to listen to music when I'm at work. Talk about crushing! So, when I heard you were listening, I was just remembering how wonderful that song is and how I wished I could listen too. That's all, of course I have it. I love that song and Song of Seven. Stunning, strikingly beautiful--both of them.

[hypatiamarshall]

Pat: Oh.....nevermind....smile

Jan in Erie CO

[Yes Oz]

Originally posted by Dakini
hypa!
I am so glad to hear that you like Song of Seven. Not many fans seem to care for it. I have grown to love that cd. Bet you would like Page of Life and Private Collection.
Friends of Mr Cairo as well.
pax, Dakini

I love this album. I got it on CD on my last visit to the UK in 99 so I rediscovered it all over again and it is still on my regular "playlist". I particularly like the title track.

[hypatiamarshall]

How about those words from Song of Seven:

a sound so volatile it makes these words seem clueless forever more.....

impregnable!

WOWWOWWOW!

Jan in Erie CO

[TOIT-TOM]

I may have asked this before, but has anyone else listened to "Dream Kitaro"? I reminds me alot of "Private Collection", in the sense that it is a dreamy, slow paced, stress relieving,almost love song type of music. Jon is in on the vocals on 4 different songs of a 10 song CD.

I had never heard of "Kitaro" prior to this, and the CD does not really give a Bio. I'm sure there is other music out there that this "Kitaro" has out, but I have not investigated it.

This CD came out in 1992, is rated DAD, as far as the quality of the music goes. I would give it 3, out of 5 stars, if I would critique it.:bonghitte

[RobAdams]

I got this for 6.99 at a used CD store. It's a German CD on the Spectrum Music label. It's the only Jon & Vangelis CD I've seen in the stores for a while, so I snatched it up. It has tracks from 1979-83. It's not bad, considering it has two songs I just don't enjoy - Back To School and Friends Of Mr. Cairo. Mr Cairo is edited, but the booklet doesn't indicate this. He Is Sailing is edited, and it states this in the booklet. Overall it's a good compilation. I wish it had Horizons and State Of Independence. The tracklist: I Hear You Now; He Is Sailing; Thunder; Beside; Birdsong; A Play Within A Play; And When The Night Comes; Deborah; Curious Electric; The Friends Of Mr. Cairo; Back To School; Italian Song; Polonaise; Love Is.

Hey i-and-i, how is Friends of Mr Cairo edited? Does it have all that dialogue and cars screaching edited out? That would be a vast improvement in my opinion. I think the song is good otherwise--haunting melodies and such. Regarding Back to School, how Jon could put that on another recording is beyond me. I cannot listen to that song. Grates on me.

[RobAdams]

Mr.Cairo has been edited to what I assume is the duration of the single version. The sound effects and Maltese Falcon dialog is still there. It runs about 3 or 4 minutes then fades out. BACK TO SCHOOL is just AWFUL. Nice to be able to program my CD player to skip those two.

BACK TO SCHOOL is just AWFUL.

Sad but true.

I wonder why they would edit out the good parts of Cairo and leave in the bad.

[BrianD]

I doubt whether J & V had much (if any) say with the editing...or even the choice of tracks on their two compilation albums (well there have been two different selections released in Australia but I don't know about other places).

When record companies edit material for compilations they inevitably get it wrong - just look at the America and Soon edits on Yesyears!

I have never heard the 'And You And I' single edit - and I hope I never do!

[jcostello]

This has nothing to do with the current conversation in this thread, but I just want to say that I'm looking forward to celebrating St. Patrick's Day (Sunday) with Jon's "The Promise Ring" album. I'm glad that he had the idea and produced the album. I don't like it as much as "Olias" or "Change We Must," but I like it a lot.

Peace, Love, and Happy St. Pat's Day, Yesfans!,

John C.

[BlackAdder97]

Sorry if I am repeating some other post from the group, but how about a 4CD set of Jon's music. I know that this is probably impossible because of all the different record companies involved, but I can only wish.

Suggestions as follows:-

Disc 1: Animation (get it out on CD!)

Disc 2: Jon 'live' (I have found a bunch of great live tracks on the 'net)

Disc 3: Jon's collaborations (Vangelis, King Crimson, Tangerine Dream, Kitaro, Mike Oldfield, etc, etc.)

Disc 4: Jon's favorite picks from his studio work

Just a thought....

Edmund.

[TOIT-TOM]

Your idea about a Jon solo, 2CD, or MORE!! set is a great idea. I would slap it on my Visa card in a heartbeat!!! I just listened to the Deseo Mixes for the 1st time tonight. I was very impressed. HOWEver......that just gave me the motivation to listen to Magnificaton again. It is like if I don't listen to it for a couple of days, I feel like I have not taken my vitamin.

Overall, I must say that Short Stories, and Song of Seven will always be my favorites.

OH THAT NUMBER MISTIFIES....................

[jcostello]

Excellent idea! We're overdue for the CD release of Animation and for a Jon box set (he's been doing solo albums for 27 years, so why not?). I'd love to hear some live Jon. I have a radio broadcast from the Animation tour, but I'd love to hear some live Olias stuff.

Peace, Love, and I'm Off to Sunhillow,

John C.

[Jackaranda]

I'd always heard that much of Song of Seven was supposed to be Yes material. It's a good album.

But my favorite Jon solo effort is--by far--3 ships. His duet with Sandra Crouch on 'O Holy Night' is the most beautiful Christmas song I've ever heard.

Originally posted by jack gowen
But my favorite Jon solo effort is--by far--3 ships. His duet with Sandra Crouch on 'O Holy Night' is the most beautiful Christmas song I've ever heard.

Have you ever heard of her before or since 3 Ships? Personally, I can't deal with her solo. Nothing against her it's just that if I wanted to hear anyone else, I'd put them on. When I want to hear Jon, that's all I want to hear. But otherwise, I'd have to agree, 3 Ships is fab!

[Squireaholic]

sandra crouch is a Gospel singer based in L.A. who has worked with numerous acts in and out of gospel music. Her twin brother is leader of a group, Andre Crouch and the New Disciples, which has won a bunch of religious accolades with and without Sandra over the years. Just an FYI...

Hey thanks Squireaholic! I have heard of her brother.

[Jackaranda]

I'm not a fan of Sandra Crouch, but I love her part on that song. Her and her brother are very, very talented whether you are fans or not.

[Devotee]

Originally posted by jcostello
I'd love to hear some live Jon. I have a radio broadcast from the Animation tour, but I'd love to hear some live Olias stuff.

Peace, Love, and I'm Off to Sunhillow,

John C. [/B]

I remember the Animation tour, and he did do some Olias stuff, it was really cool. Funny, I seemed to be the only one there who knew what it was....

Originally posted by Devotee
I remember the Animation tour, and he did do some Olias stuff, it was really cool. Funny, I seemed to be the only one there who knew what it was....

I wonder what that was about? Olias was the album just preceeding Animation. And a far better album in my opinion.

[Devotee]

Animation came out right about the same time as Drama. Song of Seven was after Olias, and then there were the Jon and Vangelis albums.

You are exactly correct Devotee. A bit of brain fog here going on. Thanks!

[hypatiamarshall]

Song of Seven came out after Olias. Olias seems more advanced in concept to me. Maybe, that is just my perception. What do you musicians say?

Jan in Erie CO

Originally posted by Devotee


I remember the Animation tour, and he did do some Olias stuff, it was really cool. Funny, I seemed to be the only one there who knew what it was....

Unfortunately, the radio broadcast I have doesn't have any Olias songs. They must have been edited out of the broadcast to make room for commercials. Silliness.

Peace, Love and Happy Easter!,

John C.

Originally posted by hypatiamarshall
Song of Seven came out after Olias. Olias seems more advanced in concept to me. Maybe, that is just my perception. What do you musicians say?

I'm not a musician but I hope it's ok for me to weigh in on this one. I agree with you completely Jan. It's hard for me to imagine that Olias was first and he went directly into Song of Seven. Seems like it should have been the other way around. But then again, Olias sounds a LOT like another Yes album. Perhaps with Song of Seven, Jon was wanting to do something that he saw was just him--without the Yes influence.

Yes, like you Jan, I would like the opinion of the musicians on this site.

[BrianD]

I'm not a musician either but we need to remember that between Olias (1976) and Song of Seven (1980) there are four years that included 2 Yes albums and the first J & V album.

Olias is more wedded to the TFTO/Relayer era while Song of Seven is more related to Tormato. In other words, its a bit like saying that Tormato doesn't appear to develop out of TFTO. The change of style in his music was reflected in Yes as well. Its been suggested that the change of style in Yes music at the time was in part a reaction to the charges of being musically inaccessible to the mainstream. The punk movement was part of the scene in the late 70s that influenced the change.

Very good point BrianD! I can see that.

Gosh the memories just flood back. These albums have been
such a part of my life! I remember hearing I Hear You Now
on WLIR in NY for the first time and totally freaking out. Radio
was so cool back then. They actually played all of Short Stories
and raved about it. There were times I can remember recording
new solo stuff on a boom box while driving. Jon & Vangelis is
such magic for me. I hope those two can patch it up. [Something
about Jon remixing Page of Life...] If you can, get the original
Vangelis produced version [white cover]. Song of 7, Animation,
Friends & Private Collection are pure Heaven! Olias of course
is a favorite [I think I have 3 LPs & two CDs -check those used bins!] Another more recent fave is Toltec. Ya gotta get it. 3 Ships
is a year round Christmas album. There were videos for 3 Ships and Easier Said Than Done that were priceless and got played on MTV quite a bit. They also played a video for Friends of Mr. Cairo.
We've got to get that time machine...
I was Blessed to see the Animation tour and Jon & Kitaro.
I cannot wait to hear what the Magic Elph has in store for us next. Love to you all, Shallel

Originally posted by Unregistered
Gosh the memories just flood back. These albums have been
such a part of my life! I remember hearing I Hear You Now
on WLIR in NY for the first time and totally freaking out. Radio
was so cool back then. They actually played all of Short Stories
and raved about it. There were times I can remember recording
new solo stuff on a boom box while driving. Jon & Vangelis is
such magic for me. I hope those two can patch it up. [Something
about Jon remixing Page of Life...] If you can, get the original
Vangelis produced version [white cover]. Song of 7, Animation,
Friends & Private Collection are pure Heaven! Olias of course
is a favorite [I think I have 3 LPs & two CDs -check those used bins!] Another more recent fave is Toltec. Ya gotta get it. 3 Ships
is a year round Christmas album. There were videos for 3 Ships and Easier Said Than Done that were priceless and got played on MTV quite a bit. They also played a video for Friends of Mr. Cairo.
We've got to get that time machine...
I was Blessed to see the Animation tour and Jon & Kitaro.
I cannot wait to hear what the Magic Elph has in store for us next. Love to you all, Shallel

Very cool! Thanks Shallel! I thought that I heard a rift developed between Jon and Vangelis but had no idea of the details. So it was over Page of Life? The one I have has a white cover with a color pix insert. Is that the original? What was changed on subsequent updated versions?

Yes those Jon and Vangelis recordings are really good. The ones I like the best are Short Stories and Mr. Cairo.

I'm only recently discovering Toltec and finding that I like it a LOT.

I'm sick that I missed those 3 ships videos. I would love to see them. I completely missed the Animation tour and Jon and Kitaro but I did win a video of Jon and Kitaro on Ebay last week. I can hardly wait to get it.

I too cannot wait to see what he has in store for us. He's just the best!

[hypatiamarshall]

You saw the Animation Tour???? Lucky you! What do you remember about it?

Jan in Erie CO

Hello Pat & Jan -

The reissue of Page of Life is brown, the mixes are fairly horrible and Jon cut that stupid pinball machine instrumental that V. put on the original. I think there was an additional song or two added. When V. got a listen, he appearently sent Jon a nasty letter and Jon replied "Well I'm glad you liked my mixes." I had ordered it from Opio but never got it. I've learned not to pre order stuff after 3 cds never came. Maybe someday they'll send
Anderson/Koroshev. [After all the joy and enlightenment this guy has brought to my life I can hardly complain about $45 of cds.]

The coolest, most beautiful song ever was recorded in
those PoL sessions and released as a limited ed. CD single with Wisdom Chain. The song is called Sing with Your Eyes, and WILL make you cry.
I was lucky enough to find One at Yesfest for $100.

Those videos were really fun. I had them on VHS at one time but they were accidentally erased. [weeping] The 3 Ships one had Jon flying in an animated spaceship [a la Jetsons] into the MTV studios and proceeding to decorate a tree, and the studio, drink eggnog, get rowdy and then start pulling snowballs out of a freezer and beaning everyone with them.
What a hoot!
The Friends of Mr. Cairo one had Jon beating Vangelis at poker. [the scene on the album cover]

As for the Animation tour, I saw two shows, at the Palladium in NY and the Convention Hall in Asbury Park. The stage had flourecent green spider webbing radiating out from the Olias symbol at the back of the stage, and they came on to Ocean Song [at earthquake level] He played with Clem Clemson, David Sancious(!!), Stefano Cerri, and Simon Phillips I think.
He did quite a range of stuff from the solo albums, Yes, & Jon & Vangelis.
State of Independance was awesome as was Animation, and all the rest.
After the Convention Hall show a bunch of us walked down the circular, Roger Dean like ramps onto the beach and listened to all of Tales on the old Boom Box. Pure Magic.

Enjoy the Jon & Kitaro video, Pat. That was a tremendous show --
If It Wasn't for Love was a highlight for me.

Jon - if you're peeking in - thanks a million - again!

Love to all --

Shallel

[hypatiamarshall]

Tnanks for the info!

Tell me about Yesfest, please.

Jan in Erie CO

Originally posted by Unregistered
The reissue of Page of Life is brown, the mixes are fairly horrible and Jon cut that stupid pinball machine instrumental that V. put on the original. I think there was an additional song or two added. When V. got a listen, he appearently sent Jon a nasty letter and Jon replied "Well I'm glad you liked my mixes." I had ordered it from Opio but never got it. I've learned not to pre order stuff after 3 cds never came. Maybe someday they'll send
Anderson/Koroshev. [After all the joy and enlightenment this guy has brought to my life I can hardly complain about $45 of cds.]

The coolest, most beautiful song ever was recorded in
those PoL sessions and released as a limited ed. CD single with Wisdom Chain. The song is called Sing with Your Eyes, and WILL make you cry.
I was lucky enough to find One at Yesfest for $100.

Those videos were really fun. I had them on VHS at one time but they were accidentally erased. [weeping] The 3 Ships one had Jon flying in an animated spaceship [a la Jetsons] into the MTV studios and proceeding to decorate a tree, and the studio, drink eggnog, get rowdy and then start pulling snowballs out of a freezer and beaning everyone with them.
What a hoot!
The Friends of Mr. Cairo one had Jon beating Vangelis at poker. [the scene on the album cover]

As for the Animation tour, I saw two shows, at the Palladium in NY and the Convention Hall in Asbury Park. Pure Magic.

Hi Shallel, Thanks so much for the updates! So, to be clear, are you saying that the updated version of pol is not worth having and that the only good thing about it is that the pinball machine instrumental is deleted?

I am absolutely dying for a copy of that song Sing with Your Eyes. How can I get a copy? Any thoughts?

I feel your pain regarding the re-taping over those videos. I'm sick just hearing about it! That's the kind of stuff they should be playing around Christmas. And Jon playing poker, how cool is that?! I would love to see that one too.

Also, your description of the Animation tour sounds soooo wonderful! I could not be more jealous. Oh to have been there....

Good karma Shallel!

[Jackaranda]

Sorry to interrupt, but Each and Everyday popped into my head when I saw this thread just now. THAT is a GREAT song!!!Jack...

A Wonderful Wonderful Song!

[Jackaranda]

I can't help it if I'm always right. You know how it is.

Seriously though, that's SUCH a beautiful song.

I found it much easier to get into Song of Seven and 3 Ships than Olias. That was just, on the whole, a little too far for me to travel, I guess.....

Yes Jack, I know how it is. hahaha!

It is just such a beautiful song. It's in my head now and am I GLAD! One more song from that recording that I think is exemplary is One More Time. The song itself took a little getting used to but Jon's voice! Holy Cow! What he does with his voice on that song is truely remarkable. I've never heard him sound like that. He's such a genius.

I'm surprised you don't care for Olias. Particularly since you have been a Yes fan for so long. You might try it again. On Song of Seven there are only 2 songs that I like and I like them a lot but the rest of the album, I don't care to listen to at all. I like Days and Song of Seven. That's it. Of course 3 Ships is brilliant and wonderful and inspiring and delightful and great and happiness inducing...

[Jackaranda]

I can't remember why I couldn't get into Olias that much.But there is very little I remember about anything back then!!!

I know the feeling Jack.

I'd bet if you put it on again, I'd just bet you'd really like it. It's pretty special.

[Jackaranda]

You already are getting me back to TFTO. One thing at a time....

[shallel]

Actually, now that I remember, [smell that smoke?]
there are 2 reasons to buy the rerelease:

1. The Jon & Vangelis version of Change We Must!
2. The extended version [10 min] of Wisdom Chain!


Each and Everyday! I Love that one too!

If you guys want a great Vangelis album, pick up

Voices - no JA but a epic work.

Peace, Sha

Well of course I must have it now. I did not even know of its existence until you told me about it. Perhaps that can be put on a recording to "round it out".... hmmmmm? (Inside joke for Shallel) hahaha!

Ok Jack, I won't hound you about Olias, YET! hahaha!

[Jackaranda]

That's a lot of additional material. But i'm going to have to wait a while. First there's the Topographic Tea Party, and that may take a while....Jack....

Originally posted by jack gowen
That's a lot of additional material. But i'm going to have to wait a while. First there's the Topographic Tea Party, and that may take a while....Jack....

Sold indeed--Lock Stock and Two Smoking barrels!

You know Jack I want to hear all your details regarding the Topographic Tea Party!

[Jackaranda]

SO many times, in the mid 70's, when Tales was our album of choice, it was fire it up and put on side 1. Then usually 4 or 2. I cannot get The Remembering out of my head now. It's just stuck in there. "High the memory carry on-while the moments start to linger-sail away among your dreams". Did I get it right?? Jack...

Direct from YesWorld:

High the memory carry on
While the moments start to linger
Sail away among your dreams

[Jackaranda]

I haven't seen the lyrics to any of Tales in Years, I only think I remember them, although I'm sure I'd have a few wrong. But thanks for checking. You probably know them backwords!!! Jack....

A lot of them anyway. You should check them out again. The words alone will blow your mind.

[hypatiamarshall]

Olias is one of my favorite albums of all time. That is another album I never get tired of. OK, yessiree you hound Jack from the left, and I will hound him from the right? Ready....get set.....

hahahahah

Jan in Erie CO

Ok Jack, you heard it. No mercy here! hahaha

[Jackaranda]

I'll have you know I listened to Ritual today for the first time in a long time (the studio version).

Flying home. Going home.

Back to Anderson, Yessiree, you know who plays lead guitar on 'Easier Said Than Done' don't you????

[Jackaranda]

Besides, if you and Jan hound me at the same time God only knows what will happen....Have you been training her at Topographic U.???

Originally posted by jack gowen
Besides, if you and Jan hound me at the same time God only knows what will happen....Have you been training her at Topographic U.???

Jan's already a fully fledged devotee at Topographic U. Only the best can happen if we hound you at the same time! hahaha

Originally posted by jack gowen
I'll have you know I listened to Ritual today for the first time in a long time (the studio version).

Flying home. Going home.

Back to Anderson, Yessiree, you know who plays lead guitar on 'Easier Said Than Done' don't you????

Isn't Ritual wonderful, she said dreamily.....

And Jack, yes I do know who plays on Easier Said Than Done and you know I was surprised.

[Jackaranda]

"Suddenly the horizon lifts--there's a sign up high"
Name the song and album!!!

Stumped here.

[Jackaranda]

Everybody Loves You from Song of Seven. I'm shocked and stunned you didn't know that. I need a cup of tea. Be back shortly...Jack...

[TOIT-TOM]

My favorite would have to be "I hear you now". I played that song (actually the DJ did per my input) at my wedding reception. I also topped it off with "Time and a Word" from the band.

I have to admit that "Song of Seven" is a pure platinum production by Jon. Just a great rythmic type of typical Jon song. So wonderful...........so wonderful!!!

YES....they continue to produce the movement!!!

FOREVER!!! :yesbird:

[Jackaranda]

"Song of Seven is a great piece of work by Jon and a high point in his solo career. This was also around the Vangelis period.

I still doubt if I could get into Olias. It just never worked for me....

Originally posted by jack gowen
Everybody Loves You from Song of Seven. I'm shocked and stunned you didn't know that. I need a cup of tea. Be back shortly...Jack...

Ok Jack, here's what you do. Call Jon and tell him that I need help and that only he can tutor me properly and that he has to come see me right away.

No I did not know that song because that is one Jon song that I don't care for. And as a matter of fact there are only 2 songs on Song of Seven that I can even listen to. So you see, I need that visit from Jon ASAP!

You're still not out of the woods as far as Olias goes you know. Me and Jan are going to be relentless. hahaha!

And Tom, you are right about that song being GREAT! I literally get weak-knee'd when I hear it.

[Jackaranda]

He said to tell you this:

Tears won't ever leave you like the autumn leaves
Bearing fruit, that seasons everything
It's everything to me
That life will never end......

Jack you're making me weak now..... oh my... what a lovely song!

Those tears will show the light,
Coming through the night

If there's anything around that tries to get,
To you doesn't mean your love can't make the moment right ....

[Jackaranda]

Better best to try it I've found
It makes the evening bright.
It's all been down--we treat us down
And I just saw the man
Giving peace a kindly hand.

It doesn't even end in a dream
Things are never quite the way they seem
All in all/you're really
So much more
Each and everyday, each and everyday
Each and everyday, each and everyday,
I'll guard you till the end.

[Jackaranda]

Very Good!!!!!...Jack....

We love our Jon!

[hypatiamarshall]

I can attest to Yesirree's veracity. Not only do I have a degree from Topographic Oceans, I have a Ph.D. from Whattsamatt U.

I couldn't resist.

Jan in Erie CO

[Jackaranda]

That's great. A Yes fan and a Bullwinkle fan.
Yessiree is trying her best to get

me to become a citizen of Topographicville.
See, she's rediscovering all this, and that's great. Anyone who loves that album so much must be very cool, indeed.

But please don't gang up on me!!!!...Jack...

[hypatiamarshall]

Now, Jack, you need to calm down. Take a few deep breaths. There isn't anyone trying to gang up on you. Pat and I are just trying to convince you that Tales is a masterpiece. Now, if it turns you don't like it: get up that Gallagher sheet of clear plastic, for here comes the casaba. hahahahahaha I am kidding!!! Pat, you tell him. I kid a lot!

Jan in Erie CO

Originally posted by jack gowen
But please don't gang up on me!!!!...Jack...

Count your blessings Jack. Others should be so lucky! Don't you agree Jan?

[Jackaranda]

First, I WAS into Tales for a long time. In the mid and late 70's I listened to it literally hundreds of times (except side 3). I agree it's a masterpice. What I don't agee on is that it was 80 minutes long. It should have been 60, about the length of a CD today. This is where Pat and I mainly disagree. If either of you or anyone else can get into side 3, except for Leaves of Green, more power to you. Now it's side 2 that has me intrigued more than anything else on the album, really. It was part of the album I liked but never thought was that great, but now I'm re-thinking that. So not to rough, please!!!!...Jack.....

Originally posted by jack gowen
So not to rough, please!!!!...Jack.....

Would not think of being rough Jack! I thought you knew me better than that! No, what I would recommend is that you listen to it in order in one unbroken time so you can hear how all 4 sides depend upon one another. Only then can you Really get the full measure of what Yes has in store for us.

[Jackaranda]

It's been a bit difficult to find the time to do that. Someday....

I know how that is. Time is not as available as it was when Tales first came out--for either of us, I'm sure.

[Jackaranda]

You know, the reason I got to listen to as much today as I did was because of driving and yardwork. I always wear the walkman when I work outside.

[TOIT-TOM]

I used to have the same opinion about Tales, as I did about Olias. They both seemed too far out there for my tastes. As I grew more into the actual Yes music, I now finally know that it simply was a maturity process for me. It is kind of like going from a soda pop to champagne. How wonderful all of Jon's music is...so wonderful!!

[Devotee]

I put a decent cd player in my car, and I have a half hour comute to work each way. I also enjoy long driving trips like following a Yestour for a week or more. Yowza!

[Jackaranda]

Maybe I just need to hear it again, Tom. I've got Tales in the car now.
And Devotee, Yes music makes long drives and work much shorter!!

[jcostello]

Yes, I know I could go to a Jon Anderson Website somewhere for the answer to this question, but I feel like a sloth today, what can I say? Does anyone know when the next Jon solo album is coming out, or any other info on it?

Peace, Love, and Anyone Can Light a Candle and Ask a Question,

John C.

[Devotee]

like all Yes and related music, it will come out when it comes out. I wouldn't be surprised if he were working on it now, but maybe he'll wait until after the next tour. I uesd to get upset when my need for new music went unfulfilled, however the timing has always been so good on it's own, I just wait patiently now.

I have just finished the choregraphy for "Can You Imagine" it will be really cool!

Hey John, I don't think that laziness is the problem here. I've never seen anything about a latest Jon work coming out--anywhere. Where did you even hear about such a thing? I've heard he's got lots of things that he has been working on but I have not heard anything about any work actually being anywhere near ready for release. Now I could be wrong, and I hope I am. Does anyone have any insight on this?

Originally posted by Devotee
I have just finished the choregraphy for "Can You Imagine" it will be really cool!

So Devotee, are you and your dancers going to tour with the guys performing your choregraphy? How cool would that be?!!!

[jcostello]

Originally posted by yessiree
Hey John, I don't think that laziness is the problem here. I've never seen anything about a latest Jon work coming out--anywhere. Where did you even hear about such a thing? I've heard he's got lots of things that he has been working on but I have not heard anything about any work actually being anywhere near ready for release. Now I could be wrong, and I hope I am. Does anyone have any insight on this?

Actually, I haven't heard anything about a new Jon release, which was why I was wondering. The last new one I remember was "The More You Know," which came out a few years ago. I'm not part of the Opio/secret society of Anderson fans group, so maybe he's released several new things only available to them, I don't know. Granted, he may be focusing more on the next Yes tour than solo projects right now, but Jon has amazed me a couple times in the past by juggling both Yes and solo commitments simultaneously (i.e. working on/releasing a solo album while Yes does a new album and tour).

Peace, Love, and If You Know More, Please Tell Us!,

John C.

Originally posted by jcostello
Granted, he may be focusing more on the next Yes tour than solo projects right now, but Jon has amazed me a couple times in the past by juggling both Yes and solo commitments simultaneously (i.e. working on/releasing a solo album while Yes does a new album and tour).

You're right about that! Jon is one prolific and multi-talented genius.

[jcostello]

Yeah, but no one is more prolific than Rick Wakeman.

Peace, Love, and Rick Releases Solo Albums More Frequently than Anyone,

John C.

Does he really? I completely lost track of his solo works since Journey to the center of the earth and the wives thing. I'm not completely crazy about either of them. Are any of his later things better than those two?

[TOIT-TOM]

I would love to hear a collaboration between Jon and Roger Hodgson. They both have such great singing voices! Roger has done some solo work, after his days with Supertramp, and it was very enjoyable. I don't need to say how great Jon's efforts have been.

Add in Phil Collins, and watch me go nuts! ;)

[Jackaranda]

You know Roger was one of the candidates to be the new Yes lead singer when Jon formed ABWH. He also co-wrote Walls, and is apparently a good friend of TR.

It WOULD be interesting, though....Jack...

Roger is pretty cool but I can live without Phil. Peter Gabriel was always my interest re: Genesis. When he left, that was the end of Genesis for me. But I know that a lot of folks like him a lot. Just not my cup of tea.

[Jackaranda]

One of my favorite albums is Seconds Out--the Genesis live album that came out in 77. Gabriel had left, but it was all his songs they were doing, before they became what they became in the 80's. Steve Hackett was still in the band on that album.

[Flo]

I don't want Roger Hodgson to work with Jon. I used to like Supertramp in the 80's but then I got tired of Roger's voice and their music as a whole. He can contribute to song writing if he wants but no more. As Yessiree said in other posts, it's Jon we want to hear.

[TOIT-TOM]

Well that idea about Rodger Hodgson went over real good, didn't it? Just an idea. Not to mention Phil Collins, wow that thought really was popular!

Of course I am with all of you in the thinking of a straight-out Jon solo album, or perhaps with Vangelis. Maybe I am trying to fix something that certainly is not broken!

He jumped through the horse I guess, disappeared, no mess. :band:

[Jackaranda]

That's one I'd get in an instant. As yessiree and I have noted, they did some absolute magic together.

As for Wakeman, Return to the Centre of the Earth was good, which brings another thought. Justin Hayward did a song on Return-Jon and Justin collaborating would be interesting. TR also had a song on it, but Hayward's was just beautiful.

Whatever happened to Roger anyway? Or do we care anymore?
Creative thinking though, Tom.

[hypatiamarshall]

Does anyone remember this album by Steve Hackett? I loved it. I have the CD.

Jan in Erie CO

[Dakini]

Justin Hayward did a song on Return??? Why didn't I know that?
Are you sure? I know he did one on War of the Worlds which was titled "Forever Autum" and it is quite beautiful. Please tell me
what the song is. I just saw Justin this past weekend! Twice!
Reno and Tahoe. The Sunday night show rocked!

[Jackaranda]

Justin Hayward did a beautiful song on Return called 'Still Waters Run Deep'. Wakeman may have actually written it or co-wrote it. It sounds like a great Moody Blues song.

I take it you like JH. I saw the Moodies 5 times between 81-88 (the Moraz years). He really is great. I have a couple of their concerts on video.

I also saw JH on PBS about 6 months ago. He did a lot of obscure, old Moodies songs, ones I'd never seen them do before.

Anyway, check it out if you can. It's a lovely song.

[jcostello]

Originally posted by yessiree
Does he really? I completely lost track of his solo works since Journey to the center of the earth and the wives thing. I'm not completely crazy about either of them. Are any of his later things better than those two?

He does, indeed, seem to release a lot of albums. Every two months in the Twin Cities, there's a record show that I go to (there's another one tomorrow), and one of the dealers always says, "I've got the new Wakeman!" It's become a running joke between us, but Rick does seem to have a new album every time I blink.

I don't think most of his later albums are better than "Six Wives," although I would recommend the "Greatest Hits" album that has one CD of Rick paying tribute to himself covering Yessongs, and the other CD is a compilation of some of the best Rick solo stuff. I also really liked the live "Wakeman with Wakeman" CD, which always brings back happy memories for me of seeing Rick and Adam Wakeman at the Cabooze (one of the best concerts I've ever experienced).

Other than that, I prefer Wakeman albums with no vocalist, and faster songs/arrangements. Some of Rick's slower stuff is beautiful, some of it puts me to sleep. Although I may be in the minority, I liked "Criminal Record," I liked "White Rock" (I haven't gotten "White Rock 2" yet; maybe when I win the lottery), and I liked "Rhapsodies," because they're good, no vocals (except for one song on "Criminal Record," and its a guy from the comedy group The Goodies, so no objection), and I got them on record, so they're considerably cheaper than paying import prices for many of the Wakeman CDs since the '80s.

I know I've strayed from the Anderson thread, so a little bit about Rick and Jon. Although it was a trifle bit stiff sounding, I still liked the song they did together on Rick's 1984 album, and I would love it if they'd get together to do a complete album of vocals/piano/keyboards. Also, if I ever get back my collection of Jon, Rick and Steve CDs (I sold a bunch of them because I desperately needed money, a decision that I now regret), I'd like to make some mix tapes of Anderson, Wakeman and Howe songs. I figure that those would be the next best thing to a new album by ABWH. Sorry to ramble so long, but you got me thinking.

Peace, Love, and I'd Love an ABWH Reunion, Because I Never Got to See Them in '89/'90,

John C.

[Devotee]

Originally posted by yessiree


So Devotee, are you and your dancers going to tour with the guys performing your choregraphy? How cool would that be?!!!

Oh I wish! Although I doubt if the parents of my dancers would approve. I am sending the video on to Jon though along with some other Yes related dances I've done.

As for the Opio/secret Jon society (wink wink , nod nod) he has said he wants to do a sort of follow up to Olias. Whatever that means. It could be a sequel, or (more likely) something completely different. Main point is he wants to do something that's all Jon all the time (sounds good to me).

Originally posted by Devotee
I am sending the video on to Jon though along with some other Yes related dances I've done.

Main point is he wants to do something that's all Jon all the time (sounds good to me).

Ok Devotee, 2 things. First of all, can I get in that mailing you are sending? I'll pay the postage.

And secondly, all Jon all the time? Sounds real good to me!

[Devotee]

Don't think I haven't thought of it myself. Though the tape would probably ruin my hair, and I always like to try to make a good impression............................Jane probably opens everything first anyway...

I'm sure Janeeee and I will get along great! How could she not be exceedingly cool? And we're both in love with the same guy so we already have a lot in common. Ok, where can I get that crate....

[Devotee]

Jane is very cool, and I have a great appreciation for what she must endure from Jon's fans. He is such a free spirit, and she seems to keep him grounded.
Remember, this is Jon we're talking about so be very careful what you ask for......

Yeah, like I could even open my mouth to speak if I ever had the chance to meet him... I'm afraid all Janeeee would have to endure with me is someone who passed out in their presence.

I am a new devotee of Wisdom Chain. I find that when it comes on, I'm all grins. I just can't stop smiling from ear to ear and I feel so happy and joyous. Then I play it again. Does anyone else have that experience?

[Dakini]

I love that song! I find myself getting up and dancin around and singing along with it. Catches me every time. In fact I think I will put it on right now. Good one for starting my day today.

[Devotee]

Have you looked at the "Wisdom Chain" on Jon's Opio Foundation site? Check out the ridiculous picture of Suzan Douglass and Jon...

Who is Suzan Douglas and why is she standing next to Jon and not me? I have not seen the pix. I'll go and check it out.

Ok, I saw it. How is it ridiculous? She's a beautiful blonde with her arm around Jon's shoulders. And she is able to remain conscious. Far more than what I imagine I could do...
After seeing the pix, I can better see why she might be there instead of me.

Who is she anyway?

[jcostello]

Originally posted by Devotee


As for the Opio/secret Jon society (wink wink , nod nod) he has said he wants to do a sort of follow up to Olias. Whatever that means. It could be a sequel, or (more likely) something completely different. Main point is he wants to do something that's all Jon all the time (sounds good to me).

Olias is my favorite JA solo album, so that would be ducky as far as I'm concerned.

Ok, if he's currently not doing something that's all Jon all the time, then what is he doing (or who is he) during the time when he's doing something that isn't Jon?

Peace, Love, and It's a Devotee Brainteaser,

John C.

[Flo]

I've seen the picture of Suzan Douglass and Jon. Suzan is a lucky person. It's all I can say !

[Devotee]

I know who Suzan Douglass is, but if I tell you, then I 'd have to kill you....

It was a great feeling being that close to you know who...

Devotee! You must be one of those beautiful babes that one of the guys on this site said must fill up all the front rows of all the shows. You lucky dog--across the board!

[Devotee]

I've never been in the front row (legitimately anyway) except during Jon's Animation tour. I do like to rush the stage for the encores, and often get close. I've even done the "invisible" thing to get backstage. Jon always recognises me, and even if i couldn't get a pass manages to be where he can say hi. I feel very blessed to be in the right place at the right time because he is a very cool guy with great energy and alot of love for All Good People...

Blessed is right! Lucky and with good karma too! I need to start hanging out with you! Maybe some of it will rub off on me. hahaha

[WhiteKnight]

Hello all,

last saturday I bought Toltec. I'm greatly greatly impressed by this work. If you could say that Olias is Jon's Fragile, then Toltec is Jon's Going for the One. A masterpiece, truly.

First: great melodies. Quick Words, Good Day Morning, and Sound and Color are practically Yes-level tunes. Mozart's Ave Verum belongs to headphone nirvana.

Second: great instrumental sections. Among Jon's works, I think only Olias stands the comparison. Those american indian drums are powerful. Enter Ye the Mistery School is probably my favorite of Jon's instrumentals.

Third: amazing structure. The way Good Day Morning flows into Building Bridges, with those smooth transitions and recurring themes actually makes for a big single suite which is very close to quintessential (I mean, perfect) Jon's music.

Fourth: Longwalker. I knew this guy was speaking a lot on Toltec, and I was afraid this would be annoying. Actually, the medicine man's speeches are perfectly framed by music and become part of the music themselves. Even Longwalker Speaks, which is just Longwalker and a triangle, is fascinating. I can't understand all the words of the speaches (I mainly listened to Toltec in my car hi-fi), but they sound quite inspired.

Overall: I rate Toltec an A+ Jon Anderson work. Bravo!

WK

Originally posted by WhiteKnight
Fourth: Longwalker. I knew this guy was speaking a lot on Toltec, and I was afraid this would be annoying. Actually, the medicine man's speeches are perfectly framed by music and become part of the music themselves. Overall: I rate Toltec an A+ Jon Anderson work. Bravo!

Hi White Knight! You know I had the same feeling. I thought his speaking was going to get on my nerves but it has not. I think it's great. The whole thing. Now I have not heard it enough to be able to speak completely about it as you have but I'll say that I like it a lot--much more than I thought I would. I think it's a great effort.

[Dakini]

White Knight and Yessiree
I can't tell you how great it is to hear someone other than myself loves Toltec! It's one of my fave Jon solos. Jon says on his website that this is his fave work as well. Recognize the building bridges lyric on Mag from Toltec? Time to put on more Jon...then off to bed with me! Thanks for posting about Toltec!

[Devotee]

I too love Toltec, it's right up there with Olias as far as style and where it hits me mentally. The Building Bridges lyric is also on Deseo, and I think it's one of his best tunes, I'm glad he's finding more uses for it.

I'd say Olias and Toltec fit into one catagory. Then Animation and City of Angels are in another. the Vangelis stuff is obviously another catagory, and then there's his other wanderings...

[Roman]

Hello all, I didn't post on Yesfans for some time, but finally I got time to do it. Thanks to an Yesfan from this forum I got copies of Animation and 3 Ships few weeks ago. I'd like to thank that person once more, as the albums are really great. I'm not good at reviewing albums, I can't say exactly why I like some albums and don't like others. In the case of Animation and 3 Ships I have to say WOW, I love them. They both have great atmosphere (I only wish I got 3 Ships on Christmas as this is Jon's Xmas CD and has the atmosphere of these holy days and nights). I really don't see any weak moment on Animation, I like each song very much and the only think I don't like on 3 Ships is that women singing in "Oh Holy Night". I think Jon should have sang the whole thing (he sings only the first strophe and first chorus), I love the melody of the song, but really don't like the women's voice. Generally I'm not against other singers singing on Jon's albums (I like the singers on Deseo or Change We Must or The More You Know), but in this case Jon's voice would fit the song definitely better.

Regarding Toltec, I have to agree. That one is one of the best Jon's album, great melodies, great atmosphere. I only have to say that I don't like the medicine man speaches that much, as I don't like his voice.

Hi Roman! Welcome back. 2 things:

I agree completely about the woman singing on Oh Holy Night. Jon should have sung it through completely. Never too much Jon, in my opinion.

And regarding Toltec, that guy got on my nerves at first too but now I'm grooving on him. Keep listening--keep in on all day while you are hanging around the house. That's how I got used to him and now he no longer annoys me. I kind of like him now. He doesn't even try to sing so he never replaces Jon. Perhaps that's one reason I was able to give him a break.

[jcostello]

For me, "Deseo" and the "Deseo Remixes" were better than "Toltec" (I've just about worn out my "Deseo Remixes" tape, but I don't think it's replaceable, because isn't that album out-of-print/no longer being made?)

Peace, Love, and Please Update Me on the Remixes If You Know,

John C.

Hey jcostello, I think it might be out of print but I think that you could probably get one from Jon's web site. Go to his music site and if there's a line under a particular album that means you can click on it and it will take you somewhere that you can purchase it. That's how I got my Mr. Cairo cd. Last I looked only Animation and 3 ships did not have a link click option.

Regarding Deseo remixes, I love them. I think I prefer them over the original Deseo. I really like Deep Forest's participation on it. I have not listened enough to any of the three to definitively say that I prefer one over the other, YET. I'm getting there though. At this point I am leaning toward Toltec then Deseo Remixes then Deseo.

Can anyone offer insight on The More You Know? I'm really having a hard time with that one.

[Devotee]

I don't know for certain, but I believe it was an experiment for Jon. His oldest daughter lives in Paris, and his son is into rap. This was his attempt at being contemporary (I think). He had fun making it, and said he hoped it would do well. There is some good music there, but I have not found it to be my fav either. As always Jon does what he wants because he can. I 'm not sure there is anyone else out there who is so diverse.

[Dakini]

Just curious what your fave selection from Deseo would be.
I have had that cd for several years and never listened to it all the way through. Thinkin about listening to it tonight.

Dakini, I can speak more knowledgeably about The Deseo Remixes as I have not spent as much time with Deseo. One thing that I did find though was that they are very similar. I thought they would be more different, but like I said, I have not had much opportunity with the original Deseo. On the Deseo Remixes, I like all the tracks except track #2. It might have something to do with no Jon on the track as well as it sounding too much like something you might hear in a gay men's club. Just not to my taste.

When I get more insight into Deseo, I'll let you know.

And you are correct, Devotee, Jon does this great variety because he can. He is one genius, isn't he? I know that Steve does a lot of variety too but I don't think he has been as prolific as Jon, but I could be wrong.

[jcostello]

Originally posted by yessiree


Regarding Deseo remixes, I love them. I think I prefer them over the original Deseo. I really like Deep Forest's participation on it. I have not listened enough to any of the three to definitively say that I prefer one over the other, YET. I'm getting there though. At this point I am leaning toward Toltec then Deseo Remixes then Deseo.

Can anyone offer insight on The More You Know? I'm really having a hard time with that one.

I would agree. I also like Deep Forest's "Boheme" album, which I picked up on tape recently. Oddly enough, the local public TV station plays a bit of one song right after "Dr. Who" episodes on Saturday nights.

When you say you're having a hard time with "The More You Know," yessiree, do you mean with finding it (meaning that you don't have it) or with listening to it?

Peace, Love, and What is the Nature of the Hard Time?,

John C.

Originally posted by jcostello
When you say you're having a hard time with "The More You Know," yessiree, do you mean with finding it (meaning that you don't have it) or with listening to it?

Listening to it. I find it almost unlistenable. That's a hard concept for me to come to grips with--saying that a Jon cd is almost unlistenable. Its great fault, in my opinion, is that it appears to be without heart. One of the things that I have come to expect from Jon is the experience of BIG HEART. There is one kind of ok love song on it but the general tone of the cd seems sterile. I would love for someone to tell me that I am wrong and give me some clues to listen for things that I might have missed.

And speaking of Deep Forest, jcostello, have you heard the first album--the self titled one? Every moment is great.

[Flo]

I find it hard too ! I can't view it as a Jon's CD. It just doesn't corresponds to what I would expect from him. I think I have listened to it two or three times, no more. There are many musicians who already make that kind of music, we didn't need our Jon to do the same. The result is a colourless disc, with nothing outstanding and original.

[Roman]

Yeah, it's difficult to find your way to The More Yopu Know. Actually I don't listen to it as much as I do to the other Jon's albums, but I think it is NOT unlistenable. I like some of the songs very much (Heaven's Love, Faithfully, Dancing Fool, Sad being my faves). At first listenings I found it colourless as well, but after some time, I realised the songs have some special atmosphere for me. So maybe after a time you will realise it too. The problem with the album is IMO, that it's too long (which actually is the problem of many contemporary albums), if it were just about only a 35 minutes long or so, I think we would like it better. It's not one of Jon best albums, it's really so different from anything he did before, but all in all it has some great parts for me.

Ok, Roman, I'm going to give it some more opportunity to grow on me. I know I have to do that with most of Jon's works--to get the most out of them. I really do want to love it. I hope it happens. I'll keep you guys posted on my progress.

Anyone else?

[RobAdams]

Jon Anderson does DANCIN' FOOL?

Well it's called Dancing Fool.

So imagine that title and what such a song would sound like. Then imagine this influence being pervasive on the entire recording and perhaps you'll see why I spoke of it as The More You Poke Your Eyes, i-and-i.

That Zappa was one goofy looking dude! Cool pix!

[WhiteKnight]

Yessiree, I see why you might feel that tMYK is colourless. I think I avoided this feeling just because it's been my *first* Jon album. The cover immediately told me that I shouldn't expect Yes music, and hence I did not know what to expect at all when I first played it.

So... the music and instrumentation was simple. It felt like Jon singing in a piano bar (do non-italian understand "piano bar"?). It had all those blues and rap elements. Very, very strange. The effect was that after a few listens I loved it. Now that I've got some more of JA albums, I think it is my less fave. Still there's something to it. It creates an atmosphere, which is more down-to-earth and playful than the rest of Jon's works. Still I find it relaxing and flowing, in its own simple way.

I think you might look at it as a divertissment. Just Jon and his friends (note that on that album players are explicitly referred to as "some new friends") having fun. Putting up simple music and letting Jon's crystal clear voice play over it, using melodic colors that you don't usually find in Yes/Jon music.

It's no masterpiece, but it flows. My personal faves being "TV" and "Youth" (I *love* it when my faves close an album, like in Mag...)

Don't push it too hard, tho. It is not a crime if you don't like it. Leave it there and one day you might go back to it and enjoy it. I think all music requires a bit of chemistry, a reaction of music itself and a particular moment in your life...

WK

WK

Good thoughts White Knight. I'll keep them in mind. Thanks.

[jcostello]

I didn't give my copy of "The More You Know" much of a chance, to be honest. I listened to it a couple of times, was very unimpressed, and sold it when I desperately needed money. I may buy it back again, and if it still doesn't do much for me, maybe I'll do that Anderson/Wakeman/Howe experiment that I mentioned before, a mix of songs from their solo albums.

I don't have the first "Deep Forest" album, although I think the entire thing got played on radio, back in the early '90s when the so-called "New Age" formats were in vogue at least part-time on some radio stations. Maybe I'll pick it up and revisit it.

Peace, Love, and Jon Should Work with Deep Forest on a Whole Album,

John C.

Originally posted by jcostello
the first "Deep Forest" album. Maybe I'll pick it up and revisit it.

Jon Should Work with Deep Forest on a Whole Album

It's great. I think you will really enjoy it. And regarding Jon and Deep Forest? What a good idea!

[hypatiamarshall]

Does anyone know why Jon is interested in "Dreamtime", which is an Australian aborigine concept?

Jan in Erie CO

p.s. back from the funeral

Good question, Jan. I don't know but I'm thinking he has been interested in that theme for some time. Have you seen the ABWH video? There are some aboriginal themes in that one too.

Sorry to hear about the funeral. How are you holding up?

[Devotee]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by hypatiamarshall
[B]Does anyone know why Jon is interested in "Dreamtime", which is an Australian aborigine concept?"

Jon has made many references to dreaming which itself has an interesting history. The aboriginal concept is only one version. He is quite into Carlos Casteneda, and there is alot of lucid dreaming there. Also the levels of conciousness described in Hinduism includes dreaming, and I believe that would be an influence due to his involvement with the SRK Spiritual Family.

Here's an idear : ask him yourself in your next lucid dream...

[jcostello]

After the current Yes tour, I'd love to see Jon, Steve and Rick hook up with Tony and Bill and do another ABWH album (this time with Chris' blessing, hopefully). Will it happen? Probably not, but I can be in "dreamtime" about the idea if I want to.

Peace, Love, and Could Go For More ABWH,

John C.

Originally posted by Devotee
[Here's an idear : ask him yourself in your next lucid dream...

Now THAT'S worth the effort to learn how to do lucid dreaming all by itself!

[hypatiamarshall]

Pat: Yes, I meant aboriginal theme. No, I haven't seen the ABWH video. What is in it?

Devotee: How does lucid dreaming related to Carlos Castaneda?

I can only remember one lucid dream in my lifetime. I wonder if it is possible to cultivate this ability?

I am wonderful, even though I have returned from a funeral. I did all my bawling the week before, so I was cried out. Seeing relatives I hadn't seen in years was a real treat. And, I got 3 slices of chess pie!!!!! Many northerners don't even know what that is. Big Smile! Landing in Charlotte, North Carolina on route to Nashville was really interesting. I couldn't believe everything was so green and lush. It seemed like a "tropical" paradise to me. We are just now getting little tiny baby leaves, and tulips and daffodils are still in bloom, but will die anytime now. It was like going in time one month ahead, because it appeared to be "summer" there. When I got off the airplane in Nashville, I felt as if someone had wrapped me in a wet blanket. hahahaha

Jan in Denver CO

Originally posted by hypatiamarshall
Pat: Yes, I meant aboriginal theme. No, I haven't seen the ABWH video. What is in it?

Devotee: How does lucid dreaming related to Carlos Castaneda?

I can only remember one lucid dream in my lifetime. I wonder if it is possible to cultivate this ability?

In the ABWH video, it looks like they are in Australia and there are aborigines in it. Pretty cool.

And since Devotee's not here would it be ok if I say something about the lucid dreaming? That was one of Don Juan's teachings to Carlos. His instruction was to go to sleep with the intent of being awake in your dream and the way to test this is to remember to look at your hands while you are in your dream. He said that once you look at your hands you will remember that you are bringing your consciousness to the dream and little by little you can expand your ability to maneuver in your dreams if you continue to push those boundaries. He said first just look at your hands then once you have that, then you can do other things with your hands and so on.... So, that's my memory of the process anyway. I remember when I was reading those books I gave it the old college try and found it to be extremely difficult. I'd be curious if anyone else has had better success.

Devotee, did I miss anything?